There are only two species of alligators in
the world today, the Chinese Alligator and the American Alligator.
The American Alligator has a very small range that encompases
the southeastern portion of the United States. It prefers
swamps and bogs that it can hide out in and this is the only
place in North America where these can be found.
The skin on the back of these alligators is made up of 'scutes'
which are actually bony plates. Amercan Alligators'
nostrils are on the top of their snout. That way almost their
entire body can be under water and they will still be able
to breath. Juvenile American Alligators have yellowish strips
on their tail. As they grow older these strips turn a dark
color.
The tail of the American Alligator is incredibly strong and
is actually used in defense of itself if it feels threatened.
Usually when humans see Alligators they are lumbering across
land and appear to be moving very slow. This is because their
small feet are not well adapted for walking on land. They
are however excellent swimmers and use this ability to catch
their prey. |
