American crocodiles are shy and reclusive reptiles. They live in brackish or saltwater areas, and can be found in ponds, coves and creeks in mangrove swamps. They are occasionally found inland in freshwater areas along the southeast Florida coast as a result of the state’s extensive canal system.
ORIGIN:
South Florida, the Caribbean, Central and northern South America
HABITAT:
Estuarine, coastal and freshwater habitats
HEIGHT/WEIGHT:
800-2,000 lbs
Length: Up to 15 ft
DIET:
Fish, crustaceans, turtles, birds and mammals
PREDATORS:
Humans, jaguars, anacondas, and other predators when young
NATURAL DEFENSES:
Camouflage
REPRODUCTION:
Lay 20-60 eggs; 90-day incubation
THREATS:
Hunting and habitat loss
LIFE EXPECTANCY:
70-100 yrs
September-August |
July-August |
November-December | February-March |