I’m a Crocodile

I know the first question on your mind.

Are crocodiles and alligators the same?

Actually they’re not.

Alligators and crocodiles are different species of reptiles.

Crocodiles are larger than alligators.

Alligators have webbed feet.

Crocodiles have feet but they’re not webbed.

Alligators live in freshwater while crocodiles can live in both freshwater and brackish waters which are more salty.

Crocodiles are more aggressive hunters.

Crocodiles are stronger than alligators.

In a fight the crocodile will win.

There are 23 species of crocodiles throughout the world.

There are only 2 species of alligators.

Crocodiles live all throughout the world and are native to 5 continents while alligators are native to only 2, America and Asia.

You won’t find crocodiles in Europe or Antarctica.

You won’t find alligators there either.

Crocodiles live solitary lives but do arrange into groups for hunting and protecting their young.

They can also be seen basking in the sun together.

Crocodiles and alligators are very dangerous animals as they are predators and will attack if they feel threatened in their habitat.

Crocodiles live in marshes, lakes, rivers, rainforests and on land near waterways.

Crocodiles feast on many kinds of prey on land and in the waters.

Crocodiles go back over 200 million years ago during the dinosaur age.

Archaeologists have discovered bones, relics and fossils of the earliest alligators and crocodiles throughout time.

Crocodiles have a lifespan of 70 years while alligators usually live to 50 years in the wild.

In captivity crocodiles and alligators live longer because they’re cared for by professionals who tend to their needs providing them with food, housing, medical care and a pleasant environment.

Children can gain an appreciation of crocodiles at museums and zoos where they can read about their history or see them in a safe setting.

There are children’s movies that have featured crocodiles as characters with storylines.

Lyle Lyle Crocodile is about a shy crocodile who experiences stage fright and makes friends with a family that lives in the apartment he occupies with his owner and how he evolves to perform a masterpiece show on stage.

Crocodile Dundee is another movie about an adventurer who leaves his native Australia to experience life in California.

The crocodile hunter was a show that featured Steve Erwin who ventured into the wild to show the natural habitat of crocodiles in Australia. Sadly he passed but his daughter Bindi carried on in his honor.

A song that’s very popular with kids of all ages is Crocodile Rock by Elton John.

Always stay clear of crocodiles and alligators in the wild and remember they’re predators.

I’m good at hiding and very quick so if you see me stay clear.

I’m a crocodile.