PALMAS, BRAZIL – Fred belongs to the black caiman species, native to the Brazilian Amazon and considered the largest crocodilian in South America. The reptile has been spotted for years near a fishing lodge located on Bananal Island, in the municipality of Lagoa da Confusão, in the state of Tocantins.

Sport fisherman Jeová Lima is responsible for naming the animal. The video showing Fred swimming was also recorded by Lima and has gone viral on social media.

According to the fisherman, despite its popularity, the alligator does not respond to the symbolic name. The animal is estimated to measure between 3 and 4 meters in length.

Measurements are based on cranial length, and the species can reach up to 6 meters and weigh around 400 kilograms, according to experts.

Agência Amazônia