American Crocodile

FLORIDA’S SPECIALTY
The American crocodile is one of the largest crocodilians in the world, but also one of the shyest. In the U.S., they can only be found in brackish waters of South Florida. South Florida is the only place in the world where crocodiles and alligators coexist in the wild.

The crocodile can be distinguished from the alligator by its longer and thinner snout, lighter color, and an exposed fourth tooth on the lower jaw when the mouth is closed.

American crocodiles prefer to live in brackish water, and can do so as they excrete salt from a gland located near their tongue; but alligators prefer freshwater.

South Florida is as far north as the American crocodile travels. They are also found in Central and South America, along with the Caribbean.

This endangered species is threatened by hunting and habitat loss. While most countries have laws in place for their protection, many lack adequate enforcement. Additionally, data on the number of American crocodiles remaining outside of the United States is sometimes unavailable and inaccurate.