American Alligator
Scientific Name: Alligator mississippiensis
American alligators are found living in freshwater lakes, ponds and wetlands throughout much of the southeastern United States. Their range includes the states of Florida, Texas, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Mississippi.
American alligators are carnivorous reptiles, feeding primarily on fish, snakes, turtles, mammals, birds-and even other alligators on occasion. They are characterized by dark, scaly hides, broad snouts and long, muscular tails. At maturity, these animals can grow to lengths of 9.8-14.8 feet and weights of 400-1000lbs.
Fun Facts:
- Modern alligators have changed very little since the days of their dinosaur ancestors 200 million years ago.
- The largest American alligator ever captured was recorded at approximately 19 feet long, but this validity of this report is still in question.
- Female alligators provide their offspring with more parental care than any other species of reptile. They will stay with and protect their young for up to two years after the babies have hatched.
- American Alligators were almost hunted to extinction in the 20th century. Trappers used their durable hides to make leather purses, wallets, luggage and clothing. Due to recent conservation efforts, however, American alligators are no longer endangered-though they still face threats from habitat loss and poaching.
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