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 alligator's is broad and flat, while the crocodile's is pointed and triangular. Both have a reputation as man-eaters, 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 just about anything that moves. Because they swim just 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. This 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. Conversely, a human standing in shallow water appears much taller and is therefore not as likely to be attacked. Alligators and crocodiles live in different climates, the alligators being found in colder, northerly temperatures and the crocodiles and caymans in equatorial areas. The two species are similar in size, the females growing from seven to eight feet in length and the males from 12 to 13 feet (there have even been accounts of 18-footers). The life span of each is roughly similar to that of humans: anywhere from 60 to 90-plus years. An adult alligator consumes around 50 pounds of food a year. Like all reptiles, they are thermaregulatory -- that is, 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. When they do need to move fast, their top speed is only about 11 miles an hour, so they're easy to outrun on land. It's when they're in their element -- the water -- that they become a threat. A female will enter the males' territory in February and begin pushing the males into the water until she find a male who is too strong. Thus the largest and strongest males are chosen as mates and can pass on their physical traits to another generation. Once the babies are hatched, the mother must protect them, because they're considered delicacies by raccoons, lizards and snakes. A baby will chirp to call its mother, and in fact any adult that is nearby will come to an infant's aid when it hears the sound. So if you ever find a baby alligator or crocodile and it starts to chirp, you could be in real trouble! These animals are most definitely not pets! Many people acquire immature animals, not realizing how much they will grow. They become huge, territorial beasts that need to be left in the wild or in sanctuaries, especially as some species are becoming endangered. Consider yourself fortunate if you see one in its natural environment, and leave it there, undisturbed. Web site resources for alligators and crocodiles: Crocodile Information from NOVA online Alligator Facts from the Birmingham Zoo
RESOURCES :
Crocodiles & Alligators of the World
Model: 0713723823
Author: David Alderton
Sterling Publications
April 1998
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
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