American crocodile
Crocodylus acutus
Weight
397 - 993 lbs ( 180 - 450 kg)
Height
79 - 197 inches ( 200 - 500 cm)
About American crocodile
The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is a species of crocodilian found in the Neotropics. It is the most widespread of the four extant species of crocodiles from the Americas. Populations occur from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico to South America as far as Peru and Venezuela. It also lives within many river systems on Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola. Within the United States, the American crocodile is only found within the southern half of Florida, which has an estimated population of about 2000. The habitat of the American crocodile consists largely of coastal areas. It is larger than some other crocodile species, with some males reaching lengths of 6.1 metres (20 ft) in Central and South America.
Like all crocodilians, the American crocodile is a quadruped, with four short, splayed legs, a long, powerful tail and a scaly hide with rows of ossified scutes running down its back and tail.[2] Its snout is elongated and includes a strong pair of jaws. Its eyes have nictitating membranes for protection along with lachrymal glands, which produce tears.
The nostrils, eyes, and ears are situated on the top of its head, so the rest of the body can be concealed underwater for surprise attacks. Camouflage also helps them prey on food. The snout is relatively longer and narrower than the American alligator, although broader on average than the Orinoco crocodile. American crocodiles are also paler and more grayish than the relatively dark-hued alligator. This crocodile species normally crawls on its belly, but it can also "high walk". Larger specimens can charge up to 10 miles per hour (16 km/h). They can swim at as much as 20 miles per hour (32 km/h) by moving their bodies and tails in a sinuous fashion, but they cannot sustain this speed.
American crocodiles are more susceptible to cold than American alligators. While an American alligator can subsist in water of 7.2 °C (45.0 °F) for some time, an American crocodile in that environment would become helpless and drown.[2] American crocodiles, however, have a faster growth rate than alligators, and are much more tolerant of salt water.
Hunting Techniques
Choice of hunting equipment