American crocodile is a saltwater species, found in mangrove swamps and coastal canals. This large reptile has been for its tough hide, from which boots, bags and belts are made. It is also threatened by coastline development projects that are destroying its habitat. Now protected, the American crocodiles numbers are steadily increasing in Florida, although this is not the case in Haiti and El Salvador.
| American Crocodile | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Scientific Classification | |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptila |
| Order | Archosauria |
| Family | Crocodylia |
| Species | Crocodylus Acutus |
Appearance[]
The American crocodile is lizard-shaped with a long, muscular tail and four short legs that have five toes on the front feet and four on the back feet. Adults have grayish-green backs and tails and white to yellowish undersides.
Behavior[]
American crocodiles are a shy and reclusive species. They live in coastal areas throughout the Caribbean, and occur at the northern end of their range in south Florida. They live in brackish or saltwater areas, and can be found in ponds, coves, and creeks in mangrove swamps.
Diet[]
The diet of the American crocodiles primarily consists of small mammals, birds, frogs, turtles, and fish