American Crocodile
CONSERVATION STATUS:
Vulnerable
American Crocodile Facts
SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Crocodylus acutus
LIFE SPAN:
70 years
SIZE:
9 to 13 feet
WEIGHT:
880 to 2000 pounds!
DIET:
birds, mammals, turtles, crabs, snails, and frogs
PReDATORS:
American Crocodiles are apex predators, meaning they have no known predators. They are protected from being hunted or poached by humans
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
The American crocodile is a quadruped, meaning that it has four stocky limbs. It has a strong tail with a powerful jaw and scaly skin. The eyes, ears, and nose of the American crocodile are situated in the top of its head and this beast will keep most of its body underwater for surprise attacks. This crocodile is a grayish-green color .
BEHAVIOR:
The American crocodile prefers warm water and will many times swim into the ocean as it is tolerant of salt water. Crocodiles will live in solitude for most of their lives. Baby crocodiles will live with their mother for up to five weeks until going their separate ways. American crocodiles are very territorial and will kill sharks and other crocodiles who swim into their territory
THREATS:
Crocodiles are protected from being hunted in the while, but many poachers will still hunt the American crocodile illegally. Since the crocodile is an apex predator, it is not preyed upon by other animals. Crocodiles will kill each other for territory and mating rights.
How can you Help?
Click here for Conservation Matters website.
More education and facts about conservation of the American Crocodile.
Help conserve important wildlife reserve areas such as the Florida Everglades.
Learn as much as you can about VULNERABLE American Crocodiles and share that information with others.
Encourage enforcement of legal protection for the Amercian Crocodile.
