Where in the world can you see both an alligator and a crocodile in the same body of water? Only in Everglades National Park, according to its website. What are the differences between a croc and a gator? Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission enumerates the following characteristics that distinguish one from the other:
Crocodile Alligator
Grayish green color Black in color
Fourth tooth on lower jaw exposed when mouth Only upper teeth exposed when mouth is
is closed closed
Narrow tapered snout Broad rounded snout
Young are light with dark stripes Young are dark with yellow stripes
Another difference I noted is that baby gators stay longer with their mother, "typically one year to three years" according to Florida State University Habitat Tracker. I was surprised to spot a small baby crocodile in Flamingo Canal without any sign of its mom.
On the other hand, this baby alligator still enjoys its mother's care and protection. (Photo taken in Savannah National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia and South Carolina)
Here are the other croc and gator photos taken in Everglades:
CROCODILES
We saw these two crocs at Flamingo Canal. It was difficult to snap good pictures because the area was cordoned off.
Croc number 1 seems to be missing its lower jaw.
Croc number 2's mouth is closed. One can notice the exposed fourth tooth on lower jaw.
ALLIGATORS
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| All the gator photos were taken at Anhinga Trail except for this. I snapped it at Flamingo Canal where we also spotted the baby croc. |
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| Alligator Lounge |
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