Alligator relatives date back to the days of dinosaurs more than 150 million years ago, and alligators today still look similar to their 50-foot-long relatives. Present-day American alligators can grow to more than 15 feet and many weigh up to 1,000 pounds. During the twentieth century, American alligators were almost hunted to extinction, but increased protection allowed their numbers to rebound. Limited alligator hunts are legally permitted in parts of Florida, and throughout the state they number more than one million.