8 ways to tell alligators and crocodiles apart:
- The shape of the snout. The crocodile's snout is pointed and V-shaped, and the alligators are wide and U-shaped.
- Location. Alligators are only found in parts of the US and China, whereas crocodiles can be found across the world. Scroll down for more information about where you'll find each.
- Habitat. Crocodiles prefer water that is more saline or salty than the alligator's preferred freshwater habitat.
- Toothy Grin. Crocodiles can't hide their teeth, but alligators' teeth are sometimes hidden when their mouths are closed.
- Size. A full-grown crocodile will likely be several feet longer than an adult alligator.
- Color. Crocodiles are generally lighter in color than alligators.
- Speed. On land and in water, crocodiles are usually slower than alligators.
- Behavior. In terms of aggression, an alligator might seem tame compared to a crocodile.
Note the pointed, v-shape of this crocodile's snout. The alligator's snout is more wide, rounded, and shaped like U
.
The alligator's snout is a more rounded U shape. The differences in snouts probably evolved due to dietary differences, with alligators needing to crack open turtle shells.
Here's a close-up of the crocodile's teeth with its mouth shut
Can an alligator and a crocodile have kids together?
No, because although they might look fairly similar, they belong to separate species (Alligatoroidea and Crocodyloidea). This essentially means that they are too different genetically to produce children. So don't expect to see any "crocogators" soon!
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