I’m an Alligator

I’m part of the reptile family.

I’m also a predator and pose a threat to other animals.

I prefer to be left alone.

I live in the water and sometimes on land.

You can find me by a lake or down river or by the edge of a stream or tucked away in a burrow by the river’s edge where I can sleep during the day and remain hidden while taking in the sun.

Large alligators are territorial and solitary animals while smaller and younger alligators are a bit more social and may go out with other young alligators in search of food. Once they reach full maturity they may also become solitary.

If alligators feel threatened they will go into attack mode.

They will always protect their young and are very aggressive.

Alligators have green leathery skin, long bodies, eyes on the sides of their head, long snouts, nostrils to breathe with and lots of teeth.

Alligators have powerful grips with their mouths and once they catch their prey and lock their teeth their hunt is over.

There are 2 species of alligators in the world and they live in America and Asia.

Alligators can be traced back 37 million years ago when they first roamed the earth. Several species are now extinct.

The average lifespan of an alligator in the wild is 50 years and in captivity 70 years.

Children can learn about alligators, their habitat and their evolution at museums of natural history where they can see fossils and other displays and at zoos where they can see them safely in captivity.

Children also can learn about alligators from books and nature shows that showcase them in their natural habitat.

If you see an alligator in the wild stay clear of it and notify an officer or park ranger.

I live my life by the water, look for food, rest and nurture my young.

I’m an alligator.