American Alligator

Characteristics

American alligators are the largest reptile in North America. Broadly rounded snout distinguishes it from crocodiles. The fourth tooth on each side of its lower jaw is hidden when mouth is closed. Young are black with yellowish cross-bars. Mature alligators are coal black when wet, dark gray when dry.

Species Specifics

Physical Characteristics

Ecology

Habitat

Fresh Water swamps and waterways only.

Distribution

Diet

Carnivorous; Fish, snakes, frogs, turtles, birds, and mammals.

Ecological Web

Activity and Behavior

Activity Pattern

Alligators are active durring the day and at night, this is considered cathemeral. Durring the day alligators thermoregulate and bask in the sun. Alligators hunt and feed primarily at night.

Behavior

Social Behavior

Young alligators stay near their hatchling site and form a tight social group. This behavior aids in survival and protection from predators. As adults, alligators do have loose social contact.

Reproductive Behavior

Offspring

Between 30-50 eggs are laid in a ground litter nest for their incubation period. The eggs are then covered so that the temperature can rise. Warmer temperatures produce males, cooler temperatures produce females.

Conservation

Status

Historical

Current Threats

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