What Is The Difference Between An Alligator And A Crocodile?
If you cannot differentiate between an alligator and a crocodile, you are not alone. Unless you’re a wildlife expert, most of us have a hard time differentiating between the two. However, there are six proven points of difference between the two:
- Family – Alligators belong to the Alligatoridae family of crocodylians, while crocodiles belong to the Crocodylidae family.
- Snout Shape – Alligators typically have a rounder, U-shaped, and broader snout. The snouts of crocodiles are generally V-shaped and narrow.
- The Jaw And Teeth Structure – We cannot see an alligator’s teeth if it has its mouth closed. However, we can see some of the lower teeth of the crocodile even when it has its mouth closed. This includes their famous fang-like fourth tooth.
- Colour – Alligators are commonly black or grey in color, while crocodiles are mostly olive green or Tan, though seeing different colors can depend on the water.
- Habitat – Even though they are both reptiles, they differ in their preference for locations. Crocodiles seem to generally prefer living in saltwater (like the ocean has salt in the water) habitats, while alligators prefer to live in areas with freshwater.
- Temperament – Alligators tend to be on the calmer side of the scale, while crocodiles are typically more aggressive.
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