The American Crocodile: Conservation Success Story

A large lizard-shaped reptile, the crocodile closely resembles the alligator. Hatchlings are about 23 centimeters in length; adults may grow to 4.5 meters or larger. Florida crocodiles may be distinguished from alligators by their more slender build and their difference in snout shape. The crocodile's snout tapers forward from the eyes while the alligator's snout is untapered and rounded at the end. When the mouth is closed, the fourth tooth in the lower jaw is exposed in the crocodile but concealed in the alligator. The adult crocodile's diet includes fish, crabs, birds, turtles, snakes, and small mammals. The young feed chiefly on aquatic invertebrates and small fish. As a general rule crocodilians feed on any prey items which can be caught and overpowered.

The Florida population of the American crocodile is a conservation success story.  Listed as an endangered species in 1975 , crocodile numbers have since recovered from a few hundred individuals to as many as 2,000 adult crocodiles today. The Florida population of this native species is now classified as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

 In May of 1999 the U.S Fish and Wildlife Services  completed the original recovery plan for the American Crocodile which caused for an amendment to continue the process to ensure these animals do not end up on the endangered species list once again.