alligators & crocodiles library

Alligators and Crocodiles are reptilian relatives but are distinguished by the width of the snout. Alligators have fatter, rounder snouts than crocodiles.

Featured Article: How Alligators Work

Alligators are amazing animals that have been around for millions of years. These fearsome creatures are expert predators at the top of the food chain. See more »

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Alligator Quiz

Lurking in southern swamps from the Carolinas to Louisiana, alligators' place in folklore is both well-established and well-deserved. Get too close to one, and you'll find that their predatory abilities are no tall tale. What makes them so dangerous?

Did crocodiles descend from dinosaurs?

Crocodiles look a lot like dinosaurs, and they have certain similar characteristics. But are they related at all, or are the similarities all coincidence?

How Alligators Work

Alligators are amazing animals that have been around for millions of years. These fearsome creatures are expert predators at the top of the food chain.

What's the difference between an alligator and a crocodile?

Every once in a while, you'll hear about a giant reptile sneaking into suburbia. But have you ever wondered whether that's an alligator or crocodile leisurely drifting in your swimming pool?

Alligator

Alligator, a large reptile that inhabits swamps, rivers, lakes, and marshes. There are two species of alligators.

Caiman

Caiman, a four-legged reptile of the alligator family. Caimans closely resemble alligators in appearance, with long, thick, tapering tails and elongated snouts.