Florida Crocodiles Are Back: Here’s What You Need to Know About the Returning Reptiles
Florida Crocodiles Are Back: Here’s What You Need to Know About the Returning Reptiles.
The American crocodile is a native species that is classified as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Florida population of this species is estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 adults, up from an estimated 300 in 1975.
Currently, as development continues to expand in the Sunshine State, more sightings of American crocodiles are likely. With increasing numbers of crocodiles in areas where people live throughout the state’s west and east coast. According to USA TODAY, Florida is experiencing a growing number of complaints about nuisance crocodiles.
Here are some answers to questions about the American crocodile:
Are they Aggressive?
It’s a common misconception that American crocodiles are aggressive, albeit they’re actually quite shy and reclusive. If they’re startled, they’ll quickly enter the water with a loud splash. Normally, though, they move pretty quietly. When they’re basking in the sun or moving between warm and cold areas of water, you might see them with their mouths open. They do this to regulate their body temperature.
How do you identify an alligator from a crocodile?
Crocodiles and alligators may look similar, but there are some major differences between the two species. Crocodiles are grayish green in color, while alligators are black. The fourth tooth on a crocodile’s lower jaw is exposed when the mouth is closed, while only the upper teeth are exposed in an alligator. Crocodiles also have a narrow, tapered snout, while alligators have a broad, rounded snout. Finally, young crocodiles are light with dark stripes, while young alligators are dark with yellow stripes.
Florida Crocodiles eat what, exactly?
Crocodiles are predators that will eat almost anything they can catch. Their size determines what kinds of prey they can take down. Smaller crocodiles eat fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals, while larger crocodiles can take down bigger animals.
It’s not just wild animals that are at risk; pets that resemble natural prey are also in danger when near or in the water. So, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your pet safe when you’re near areas where crocodiles may be present.
How to avoid getting bitten by a crocodile:
Only swim in designated swimming areas, and only during daylight hours. Crocodiles are most active at night, so it’s important to be vigilant. Additionally, don’t allow pets to swim or drink in water that may contain crocodiles; they closely resemble natural prey items and could be at risk. Use fences or other barriers to keep pets and family members safe from crocodiles. And finally, leave crocodiles alone. It’s illegal to kill, harass, or possess them.
Crocodiles can be dangerous animals, so it’s important to take precautions when observing or photographing them. Always maintain a safe distance from crocodiles, and never feed them. Feeding crocodiles is illegal in many areas, and it can create problems for people who recreate near the water. If you must dispose of fish scraps, do so only in designated waste containers. Discarding scraps in the water may attract crocodiles. Finally, avoid feeding other aquatic wildlife such as ducks, fish and turtles. This can attract crocodiles by attracting potential prey animals.
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