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Welcome to "alligators and crocodiles."
This page by Jerry Wilkinson
Crocodilians are cold-blooded relatively ancient
reptiles of about 200 million years. Ancient crocodilians have measured
over 60 feet long. Fortunately, the American Alligator is well on the way
to recovery. In its habitat it plays important roles like keeping
water holes open, controls rabid raccoons and rattle snakes and is the
"watch dog" for other animals.
Unlike the American Alligator, the American Crocodile
is an endangered species. Its nesting sites have almost been eliminated.
They are not as bold as the alligator.
The rounded or shovel shape of the alligator's
head versus the triangular tapering shape of the crocodile is the most
visual distinguishing features. Both generally become lighter in color
as they age. The crocodile's teeth can usually be seen even with its mouth
closed.
A couple of older references are Alligators
and Crocodiles by Laurie Perrero, 1975 and Wonders of Alligators and Crocodiles
by Wyatt Blassingame, 1973.
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