The American alligator was hunted close to extinction by the mid-twentieth century. Legal protection and managed harvests allowed a remarkable recovery, and it is now common across the southeastern United States.
Interesting facts
- Alligators have broader, U-shaped snouts than crocodiles.
- When an alligator’s mouth is closed, mostly upper teeth show; in crocodiles the fourth lower tooth sticks out.
- Males bellow loudly during the breeding season, making the water ‘dance’.
- Alligators can survive freezing water by keeping their nostrils above the ice.
- The species was removed from the US endangered list in 1987.
- There are millions of American alligators today.
Behaviour
Alligators are ambush predators that spend much of the day basking. They are important in shaping wetland habitats.
Breeding and young
Females build mound nests of vegetation, lay 35 to 50 eggs and guard the nest and young.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss from development and drainage; considered secure overall.
Where to see it
- Everglades National Park, Florida
- Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia
- Louisiana bayous
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Everglades National Park Wildlife Guide
