Crocodilia - Crocodiles and family

With beautiful smiles and big strong tails, the crocodilians include the largest living reptiles on Earth. There are over 20 different species of crocodilians living in tropical and sub-tropical areas throughout the world. Alligators, crocodiles, caimans and gharials are all members of the crocodilian family.

Crocodilians have eyes and nostrils located on top of their head so they can see and breathe above the water's surface while the rest of their large bodies remain hidden beneath the water. Their skin is covered in bony scales called osteoderms that protect them from both their prey and predators. It's almost like they have a suit of armor!

The largest crocodilians are the saltwater and Nile crocodiles. They have been know to reach lengths of 20 feet and weigh about as much as a car!

Alligators do not get quite as big as crocodiles. There are two species of alligators. The American alligator is found in the southeastern United States from eastern North Carolina south through Florida and west into eastern Texas. The other is the highly endangered Chinese alligator which is found in the lower Yangstze River in China.

Many people want to know how to tell the difference between alligators and crocodiles. When a an alligator’s mouth is closed, the only teeth you can see point down. When a crocodile closes it’s mouth, you can see teeth pointing up and down - so a crocodile has a toothier smile! The only place where crocodiles and alligators live together in the wild is southern Florida.

We still have much to learn from crocodilians. Scientists have discovered they are immune to some diseases and can heal quickly from injuries. Alligators maintain ecosystems and help other species survive during droughts by digging water holes with their huge body. These ancient creatures are an integral part of our planet’s well being.