There are several physical differences between crocodiles and alligators that can be used to help identify which species is which. For example crocodiles tend to have longer thinner snouts than alligators and their teeth are visible even when their mouths are closed. Alligators on the other hand have shorter wider snouts and their teeth are hidden when their mouths are shut.
Another difference is that crocodiles tend to be more aggressive and territorial than alligators. They are also more likely to attack humans which is something to be aware of if you’re ever in an area where crocodiles are known to live.
If you’re still not sure which animal you’re looking at you can try to look at the patterns on their skin. Crocodiles usually have darker more reptilian-looking skin while alligators tend to have lighter more amphibian-looking skin.
Of course the best way to be sure which animal you’re dealing with is to consult a experts. If you’re ever in doubt it’s always better to err on the side of caution and assume you’re dealing with a crocodile as they can be very dangerous animals.
What is the difference between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles tend to have longer and thinner snouts than alligators.
Alligators have a broader snout.
How can you tell the difference between a crocodile and alligator skull?
If you look at the teeth crocodiles have longer sharper teeth.
Alligator teeth are more blunt.
What is the difference in size between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles can get much larger.
The largest crocodile ever recorded was 26 feet long.
What is the diet difference between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles are more carnivorous and will eat just about anything they can catch.
Alligators are more opportunistic feeders and will eat whatever is available to them.
Where do crocodiles and alligators live?
Crocodiles live in tropical areas while alligators are found in subtropical areas.
How long have crocodiles and alligators been around?
Crocodiles are thought to have been around for about 84 million years.
Alligators are thought to have been around for about 37 million years.
What is the difference in appearance between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles have a more sleek and streamlined appearance while alligators have a more bulky appearance.
What is the difference in skin between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles have rough scaly skin.
Alligators have smooth leathery skin.
What is the difference in color between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles are usually a dark color such as green or black.
Alligators can be dark or light colored.
What is the difference in eyesight between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles have very good eyesight while alligators have poor eyesight.
What is the difference in hearing between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles have very good hearing while alligators have poor hearing.
How do crocodiles and alligators reproduce?
Crocodiles and alligators both lay eggs.
How many eggs do crocodiles and alligators lay?
Crocodiles usually lay 20-40 eggs while alligators usually lay 10-30 eggs.
How long does it take for crocodiles and alligators to hatch?
It takes about 60-90 days for crocodiles to hatch and about 65-80 days for alligators to hatch.
What is the difference in lifespan between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles can live up to 100 years while alligators can live up to 50 years.
