Hobbies And Interests
Appearance
Alligators and crocodiles are covered with thick armor that protects them from predators and helps insulate them from cold temperatures. Their backs display bony plates known as "scutes." Most species of crocodiles and alligators range in length from 6 to 10 feet. You can easily distinguish an alligator from a crocodile by examining the animal's snout. Alligators' snouts are more broad, while crocodiles carry elongated snouts. Crocodiles also display the large fourth tooth on the lower jaw, even when their mouths are closed. Alligators' mouths have a pocket that holds the tooth when they close their mouths. Both alligators and crocodiles have long tails and clawed feet.
Methods of Reproduction
Alligators and crocodiles breed during specific seasons. Females construct protective nests from local vegetation and lay an average of 35 to 50 eggs. In alligators, this usually occurs within the warm summer months of June and July. Crocodiles might lay eggs as late as September, with an average of 20 eggs deposited. Nest temperature determines the sex of the hatchlings, with lower temperatures resulting in female alligators and crocodiles.
Habitat
Alligators and crocodiles are found in tropical aquatic regions including swamps, rivers and marshes. Alligators reside in freshwater or brackish habitats and cannot tolerate saltwater. Crocodiles are a more diverse family, with species living in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Because alligators and crocodiles are ectothermic, they must utilize sun and warm water to regulate their body temperatures. Winter season sends them into dormant states and they seek protection in burrows or dens located on dry land.
Feeding Patterns
Alligators and crocodiles are carnivorous animals that feed on local fauna. In addition to water-dwelling creatures like fish, turtles, frogs and aquatic invertebrates, they also prey on birds and mammals that appear at shore's edge. Larger species will attack and eat humans.