Animal Profiles
Reptiles

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

The American alligator is a freshwater crocodilian of the southeastern United States. Its broad snout and dark armoured body suit a life around wetlands.

Alligator mississippiensis

User:Postdlf · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Location
The southeastern United States, in swamps, marshes, rivers and other freshwater habitats.
Habitat
Wetlands, Rivers and lakes
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Fish, invertebrates and other vertebrates, depending on size.

Classification

Common name
American Alligator
Browse group
Reptiles
Scientific name or taxon
Alligator mississippiensis
Taxon rank
species
Family
Alligatoridae
Genus
Alligator
Source classification
Reptilia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • The snout is broader than a typical crocodile snout.
  • Males grow larger than females.
  • Hatchlings often stay in groups.

Habitat and range

The southeastern United States, in swamps, marshes, rivers and other freshwater habitats.

Appearance and adaptations

Adults have a broad, rounded snout. Males grow larger than females, and the upper jaw conceals the lower teeth when the mouth closes.

Diet and behaviour

Food changes as the animal grows and becomes able to take larger prey. Basking helps it warm up, while hatchlings often remain together.

Sources

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