Are crocodiles and alligators the same?
No, crocodiles and alligators are different animals, though both are crocodilians. Alligators have wide, U-shaped snouts, while crocodiles have narrower, V-shaped snouts and visible lower teeth when their mouths are closed.
When an alligator closes its mouth, its upper jaw covers most of its lower teeth. When a crocodile closes its mouth, the large fourth tooth on each side of the lower jaw sticks out, giving a toothy grin. Alligators also tend to be darker, almost black, while crocodiles are often lighter olive or tan.
Alligators live mainly in fresh water and are found only in the southeastern United States and eastern China. Crocodiles live in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas, and many can tolerate salt water thanks to special glands on their tongues that remove excess salt.
Where both live
South Florida is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles naturally live side by side. American crocodiles there are shy and rarely seen. Both animals are ancient reptiles whose ancestors lived alongside the dinosaurs.
Did You Know?
The temperature of the nest determines whether alligator and crocodile eggs hatch as males or females.