Alligators and Crocodiles Although at first glance the alligator and the crocodile may look almost identical,

there are actually some very distinct differences in the two types of reptile. Primarily, the shape of the snout distinguishes each: the alligators is broad and flat, while the crocodiles is pointed and triangular. In both alligators and crocodiles, the fourth tooth on either side of the lower jaw is exceptionally long. hen an alligator closes its mouth, those long teeth slip into sockets in the upper jaw and disappear. hen a crocodile closes its mouth, the long teeth remain visible, protruding outside the upper jaw. In general, if you can still see a lot of teeth even when the animal s mouth is closed, you are looking at a crocodile. Alligators and crocodiles both have thick bumpy skin but alligators tend to be darker in color. Adult alligators are grayish black while adult crocodiles are light tan to brown in color. Another difference between crocodiles and alligators is their choice of homes. Alligators are freshwater reptiles, favoring the rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes of the coast. !n the other hand, crocodiles prefer coastal, brackish, or salt water habitats. Alligators and crocodiles live in different climates, the alligators being found in colder, northerly temperatures and the crocodiles in areas around the e"uator. #he two species are similar in si$e, the females growing from seven to eight feet in length and the males from %& to %' feet. #he life span of each is similar to that of humans( anywhere from )* to +*plus years. Both have a reputation as maneaters, but is it deserved? Actually it can be. Alligators tend to become accustomed to humans and lose all fear of them; and crocodiles will generally attack ust about anything that moves. Because they swim ust below the surface with only their eyes protruding above the water, both species see whatever is at their eye level as a potential food source. !his means that a human who is treading water is seen only from the neck up, and thus appears to be a round, tasty morsel floating on the water. "onversely, a human standing in shallow water appears much taller and is therefore not as likely to be attacked. #ike all reptiles, they get their heat from the sun. And like their relatives they have a slow metabolism and must conserve energy by staying still for long periods of time. $hen they do need to move fast, their top speed is only about %% miles an hour, so theyre easy to outrun on land. &ts when theyre in their element the water that they become a threat. !hese animals are most definitely not pets. "onsider yourself fortunate if you see one in its natural environment, and leave it there, undisturbed.