The Difference between Alligator and Crocodile

Key differences between alligator vs. crocodile include:

Crocodiles and alligators belong to different families of the crocodilians. The alligator is a member of the alligatoridae family and crocodiles belong to the crocodylidae family.

The jaws of the crocodile have the same width and when the animal has its jaws closed, the teeth on the upper and lower jaw are exposed. Alligators have a wide upper jaw hiding the lower jaw from view. Only the teeth of the upper jaw can be seen when an alligator has its mouth closed. The crocodile is more likely to go for larger prey instinctively.

Crocodiles have long and narrow snouts and alligators have wider snouts in a U-shape. The shape of the alligator's jaw enables it to crush animals such as turtles more easily than a crocodile. The narrow crocodile snout is more suitable for fish and mammals.

Both alligators and crocodiles have glands on their tongues that help them cope with excess salt in the water. Alligators, however, appear to have lost this ability to get rid of salt, which makes them less tolerant of salt water.

Are Crocodiles more Aggressive to men when compared to Alligators?

As a general rule crocodiles, especially the saltwater crocodile are considered to be more likely to attack people or to become aggressive towards people. Take precautions when swimming in areas where crocodiles live (for example in Florida) and never dangle your arm or legs in the water if you are out in a boat. If you are walking and see an alligator nearby, give it a wide berth and leave the area. Remember, these are ambush predators. They can strike swiftly and for no apparent reason. They are wild animals and you should not allow your natural curiosity to put you and especially your children in harm's way. (Children look like small pretty to crocodiles. In the crocodile vs. alligator equation the match would be even but small animals and children will lose every time.)

Even if you keep all these facts in mind it can still be difficult to tell the difference between alligator and crocodile breeds or to tell if an animal can be dangerous or not. Therefore, you should always assume that the animal is dangerous and behave accordingly. Never try to get close to an alligator or crocodile if you are not used to dealing with these animals. If you venture out into areas where these animals live, take all necessary safety precautions and remain alert. Both alligators and crocodiles have the capacity to remain stock still for longer periods and it's easy to miss them. The alligator vs. crocodile comparison does know one common denominator; both types of animals can be potentially dangerous.

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The Difference between Alligator and Crocodile

Are Crocodiles more Aggressive to men when compared to Alligators?

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