Crocodiles and alligators may look quite similar at first glance, but there are some key differences that set the two apart. From their size to their habitats and behaviors, this article will explain how to tell them apart and discuss some of the most interesting characteristics that make crocodiles and alligators unique.
The Physical Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators.
There are some key physical characteristics which can be used to differentiate between crocodiles and alligators. Crocodiles generally have longer, narrower snouts than alligators, while their upper and lower jaws of a crocodile line up with each other when closed, whereas the lower jaw of an alligator is slightly tucked up under the upper jaw so that its teeth aren't always visible when its mouth is shut. Additionally, alligators typically have webbed feet for efficient aquatic movement, whereas most species of crocodiles only have partially webbed feet.
Looking at the scales, or scutes, of each species is another way to tell them apart. Alligators typically have a relatively smooth back while crocodiles often have a series of raised ridges which extend along their bodies in line with their vertebrae. Furthermore, alligators prefer freshwater habitats like swamps and marshes, while saltwater crocodiles often inhabit estuarine systems where they can swim between brackish rivers and the open ocean. Each species has adapted to its preferred environment in order to survive, making it easy to spot the differences between crocodiles and alligators.
The Habitat of Each Species.
Another key difference between crocodiles and alligators is their habitat. Crocodiles are largely confined to tropical regions, but can also be found living in subtropical climates and sometimes even deserts. Alligators, on the other hand, usually prefer freshwater habitats like lakes and swamps, although some species like the Chinese Alligator can inhabit brackish water due to its higher salinity levels.
Both species prefer areas with lots of vegetation as they need to hide among the plants and trees in order to ambush unsuspecting prey. However, alligators tend to spend much more time in the water compared to crocodiles due to their preference for freshwater ecosystems. Additionally, while both species are nomadic and do move around in pursuit of food, alligators tend to stay within a relatively small area while crocodiles often travel further distances searching for food or changing climates.
Additionally, crocodiles inhabit both saltwater and freshwater habitats while alligators prefer to stay close to the coastlines. The exceptions are the Chinese alligator which is found in the Yangtze River and the American Alligator which lives in freshwater swamps, marshes, rivers, lakes and ponds. Crocodiles are more at home in fresh or brackish waters but can also be seen in marine habitats such as estuaries, lagoons and deep ocean channels.
Getting to Know the Hunting Habits of Both Animals.
Both crocodiles and alligators are active hunters, but their hunting strategies differ. Crocodiles usually wait patiently until their prey gets close enough to be within striking range before they ambush them with a surprise attack. Alligators, on the other hand, use a strategy known as "sit and wait" where they stay in one spot while they scan the environment for potential prey items passing within reach of their powerful jaws.
Crocodiles are typically found in saltwater environments, whereas alligators prefer freshwater habitats. This contributes to the differences in their hunting habits. Alligators, which hunt in finer grained sedimented bottom habitats, use their senses of smell and hearing to listen for prey underwater and then ambush them in one swift motion. On the other hand, crocodiles use a strategy that gives them greater control over their prey by chasing it down and then drowning it with powerful bites delivered from above the water's surface. Furthermore, crocodiles also possess superior vision compared to alligators which allows them to spot potential prey targets at much greater distances before throwing themselves into action.
Interesting Facts About Alligators and Crocodiles Particular to Each Species
Beyond the physical differences between alligators and crocodiles, there are some more interesting facts about each species. Alligators have a large jaw crest which houses vibrating sensors that can detect the movements of their prey in murky water. Crocodiles have four eyelids, two of which are transparent shields that allow them to keep an eye out for predators while swimming underwater. Additionally, crocodiles possess salt glands on their tongues to help regulate the levels of salt and other minerals they consume from their environment.
Alligators possess more of a dome-like head with the eyes situated on either side. This trait helps them to remain partially submerged while they are sunbathing or surveying their surroundings. Both species lay eggs and have a long snout with many sharp teeth, but perhaps the most distinguishing trait of both is that alligators have been known to hiss, while crocodiles can produce a deafeningly loud bellow.
How to Safely Spot and Identify Alligators and Crocodiles in the Wild.
When attempting to identify alligators and crocodiles in the wild, it's important to keep a safe distance. Always look at these creatures from a distance and use binoculars if possible. It's also important to pay attention to the color of each creature; alligators are typically black or gray whereas crocodiles appear more yellowish in color. Additionally, you should observe the shape of the snout; alligators will have wide U-shaped snouts while crocodiles have narrower V-shaped snouts.
When attempting to identify alligators and crocodiles in the wild, it's important to take note of other subtle differences. Alligators have short, round feet with webbed toes while crocodiles have long feet with claws visible on each toe. The teeth of both can be seen when the animal opens its mouth, but while alligators have their upper teeth located inside the upper jaw line, the top teeth of a crocodiles typically protrude even when their mouths are closed due to its longer snouts.
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