Page 88 - World of Animals - Deadly Predators

ALLIGATORS &

CROCODILES

These toothy-smiled predators are both famed for

their ferocity, but which is truly king in the water?

Words Rachael Funnell

Alligators

An animal on the prowl for a bite-sized meal

These prehistoric-looking predators are with just a few bits of tape. At a young
largely solitary reptiles that have adapted to age alligators feed on smaller, defenceless
semi-aquatic habitats, with elongated bodies prey, such as fish, crustaceans and insects.
that possess powerful tails for propelling However, as adults their specially adapted
them through the water. There are two jaws enable them to take on larger targets,
extant species of alligator, the American including turtles, deer, birds and carrion
(Alligator mississippiensis) and Chinese found in the water.
(Alligator sinensis). As freshwater reptiles, Alligators are relatively timid towards
both species commonly inhabit swamps, humans but they are aggressive hunters in
lakes and rivers, as well as the occasional the wild, seeking out prey that they can kill
swimming pool… with a single bite or dragging larger animals
As babies, they can be vulnerable to into the water to drown them before tucking
predation from large birds and wild cats, but in for a meal.
as adults they are protected by their large With around 80 teeth in their mouth at
size and tough, armour-like hides. They have a time, they are well equipped for ripping
long snouts and strong jaws, which, while apart large items of prey and they can
capable of slamming shut with immense replace any teeth that they lose in the
power and speed, are comparatively weak process, going through approximately 3,000
when opening and can be kept closed in their lifetime.

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