'Trumpagator' spotted in South Carolina

Our pick of the strange stories from around the world.

'Trumpagator' spotted in South Carolina

Residents of Hanahan, South Carolina, have reported sightings of a bright orange alligator they have nicknamed "Trumpagator", after the distinctive orange hue of US President Donald Trump. Experts are unsure how the animal developed its unusual colouring, but suggest it may have been lurking in a rusty pipe for some time.

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Tokyo zoo trains for 'earthquake chimp escape'

Staff at Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park have released video footage of an unusual safety drill at the facility, intended to simulate the escape of a chimpanzee after an earthquake. The "chimp" – an employee in a monkey suit – can be seen wielding a branch and attacking staff, before being brought down with a pretend tranquiliser dart after 50 minutes on the run.

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'Massive spider' spooks Australians

Commuters in Melbourne were sent scrambling from their train seats when a "massive" spider was spotted in their carriage. Rail officials say they have to deal with big spiders more frequently now commuters no longer carry newspapers to swat them. The spider was most likely a huntsman, which can have a leg-span of six inches.