Alligator or Crocodile?

At first glance, crocodiles and alligators look almost identical: big armored bodies, powerful tails, and a mouth full of teeth that scream “living dinosaur”. It makes them hard to distinguish to the untrained eye. But while they might be close relatives, crocodiles have some important differences that set them apart.

Let’s break it down

Mouth Shapes

In my opinion the easiest and first thing I look for is the snout shape of the animal. In crocodiles they have long slender V shaped snouts that are perfectly designed for the diet of most of the 23 species of crocodile Fish. When hunting fish that cut and fly through the water the crocodile’s slim jaws cut through make it easier to grab the fish.

The alligators on the other hand have wider U shaped jaws which are better designed for their diet of mammals or turtles the wide shape provides them to generate an immense amount of force to grab, hold on and subdue larger prey or break turtle shells.

So that begs the question why do the Saltwater and Nile Crocodiles have stronger jaws than alligators? For both of them it both boils down to food and size. Both Saltwater and Nile Crocodiles grow up to 20+ feet and weigh up to 2400 pounds. Due to their massive size, alligators have evolved to eat large mammals.

Teeth: Who’s Smiling?

When a crocodile's mouth is closed both its bottom and top teeth are visible

When an alligator's mouth is closed only their top teeth are visible. 

If you can see a great smile on the top and bottom teeth you are looking at a crocodile.

Where they live

Alligators live in the southeast United States and some parts of China. Whereas crocodiles live in Africa, Australia, Southeast Asia, Central America and a small area in South Florida. 

Another Difference

Alligators live in Fresh or Brackish (mix of salt and fresh) water.

Crocodiles can live in saltwater due to special glands they have that can excrete salt.

Color Cues

Alligators are darker often dark grey, or black

Crocodiles are tan, olive green, or brown

Temperament

Alligators have been described by those who work with them as little puppy dogs. Now obviously do not go jump on and play with them but they are typically very docile.

Crocodiles on the other hand are known for being unpredictable and sometimes aggressive.

Ancient Predators

Both crocodiles and alligators are living relics that have survived almost unchanged for 200 million years. Their success comes from adaptability, patience, and incredible hunting skills. All that just goes to show how perfectly some animals are designed as predators or prey.

Key Takeaways:

U Shaped snout, dark grey or black with no bottom teeth showing-Alligator

V Shaped snout, tan, green or brown with bottom teeth showing-Crocodile

If you are in North America like me probably looking at an Alligator.