Wednesday, May 26, 2010

American Crocodile

american-crocodile-emerging-water
The American crocodile average lifespan is up to 70 years in the wild.  The grow up to 15 feet.  They weigh up to 2,000 pounds.  They bask on land and float in the water.
They are considered an endangered species in most of America.  Most are found in Southern Mexico, Central America, the Carribbean, and northern South America.  There are also some in Southern Florida.
The prefer fresh or brackish water of river estuaries, coastal lagoons, and mangrove swamps.  They are distinguishable from their cousin, the American alligator, by its longer, thinner snout, its lighter color, and two long teeth on the lower jaw that are visible when their mouth is closed.
Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, birds, fish, crabs, insects, snails, frogs, and occassionally carrion.