Scientific Name: Crocodylus acutus
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Sauropsida
Order: Crocodilia
Subfamily: Crocodylinae
Genus: Crocodylus
Distribution
It inhabits the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico and in South America as far as Peru and Venezuela. It also breeds on Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola, and there is a remnant population of approximately 2,000 in Florida, United States.
Habitat
The habitat of the American crocodile consists largely of freshwater or brackish water coastal habitats, and mangrove swamps.
Physical Characteristics
Some males reaching lengths of 6.1 m (20 ft) in Central and South America, but rarely exceed a length of 4 m (13 ft) in Florida. Like all crocodilians, the American crocodile is a quadruped, with four short, splayed legs; a long, powerful tail; a scaly hide with rows of ossified scutes running down its back and tail; and a strong pair of jaws. It has nictitating membranes to protect its eyes, and it does have lachyrmal glands, and can cleanse its eyes with tears. The nostrils, eyes, and ears are situated on the top of its head, so the rest of the body can be concealed underwater. American crocodiles normally crawl along on their belly, but they can also "high walk". Smaller specimens can gallop, and even larger crocodiles are capable of surprising bursts of speed.
"Galloping Crocodile"
Diet
American crocodile prey can range in size from the insects taken by young crocodiles to cattle taken by large adults and includes birds, mammals, fish, turtles, crabs, snails, frogs, and occasionally carrion.
