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Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators

It can be difficult for inexperienced people to tell the difference between an American crocodile and the other native crocodilian, the more common American alligator.  The following are some of the major differences between the two:

CrocodileAlligator
Grayish green colorBlack in color
Fourth tooth on lower jaw exposed when mouth is closedOnly upper teeth exposed when mouth is closed
Narrow tapered snoutBroad rounded snout
Young are light with dark stripesYoung are dark with yellow stripes
Crocodile and Alligator
Crocodile head showing exposed tooth when mouth is closed.Alligator head showing no exposed teeth when mouth closed.
Crocodile head from the topAlligator head from the top

 

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