| Feature | Alligator | Crocodile |
|---|---|---|
| Snout Shape | Broad, U-shaped | Narrow, V-shaped |
| Teeth Visibility | Only upper teeth visible when mouth is closed | Both upper and lower teeth visible when mouth is closed |
| Color | Darker, blackish-grey | Lighter, olive green or brown |
| Habitat | Freshwater environments | Both freshwater and saltwater environments |
| Location | United States (SE) and China | Africa, Australia, Americas, Asia |
| Size | Typically 8-15 feet | Typically 10-20 feet (Saltwater crocs can reach 23+ feet) |
| Temperament | Less aggressive, more timid | More aggressive, will attack humans |
| Salt Glands | Less functional, prefer freshwater | Functional, can filter out salt |
Characteristics (Crocodiles)
- Broad, U-shaped snout
- Only upper teeth visible when mouth is closed
- Darker, blackish-grey coloration
- Prefer freshwater habitats
- Less aggressive than crocodiles
- Primarily found in US and China
Characteristics (Alligators)
- Narrow, V-shaped snout
- Both upper and lower teeth visible when mouth is closed
- Lighter, olive green or brown coloration
- Can live in saltwater and freshwater
- More aggressive than alligators
- Found in Africa, Australia, Americas, and Asia
Habitat & Distribution
Alligator Habitats
Alligators are primarily found in the southeastern United States (especially Florida and Louisiana) and the Yangtze River in China.
Crocodile Habitats
Crocodiles have a much wider distribution and can be found in Africa, Australia, North and South America, and Southeast Asia.
