Species Spotlight : American Crocodile
 Paul Moler |
Endangered, an estimated 500 to 1,000 wild American crocodiles live in the southern tip of the Florida Peninsula and around Key Largo. They are also found in parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, although many populations outside the United States is are highly fragmented and vulnerable to extinction.
Crocodiles differ from alligators in that their snouts are more pointed and their skin is grayer. Crocodiles can also grow larger than alligators if they live long enough. The largest recorded specimen in Florida was 15 feet, captured in the 1800s, although tales of larger crocodiles abound. Contrary to popular perception, the American crocodile is not more aggressive than the American alligator. Mating generally occurs in late winter and early spring, with nesting in late April or early May.
To view crocodiles, visit Florida Bay, the
adjacent 10,000 Islands, and northern Key Largo, but keep a safe
distance. Infrequent sightings of crocodiles have occurred as far
north as Tampa Bay and as far south as Key West and the Dry
Tortugas. Scientists believe that crocodiles, especially juveniles,
are good barometers of an ecosystem’s health.
More
information about American crocodiles
Top of Page
Wildlife
Viewing Home | Where
to go in Florida | Species
Spotlight | Viewing
Information
In Your Back Yard |
Wings Over Florida Birding
Certificate Program | With Your Child
Publications |
Great Florida Birding Trail |
Florida Wildlife Calendar