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
July-August |
February-March |
November-December | September-August |