American Alligator
Alligator mississippiensis
- Where
- Southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Texas
- Habitat
- Freshwater wetlands, swamps, lakes, and slow-moving rivers
- Diet
- Fish, snails, birds, small mammals, carrion
- Size
- 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) long, weighing up to 1,000 pounds
- Lifespan
- 30-50 years in the wild, up to 70 years in captivity
- Conservation
- Listed as Least Concern by IUCN; habitat loss, hunting, and climate change are potential threats
Fun Facts
- Alligators can hold their breath underwater for 45 minutes!
- They have super-strong jaws that can crush turtle shells and bones.
- Baby alligators hatch with eyes open and start hunting right away.
Learn More
Scaly, armored skin helps protect from predators
Powerful tail propels them through water at speeds of up to 18 miles per hour
Strong jaws have up to 80 teeth that constantly grow throughout their lives