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Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators
It can be difficult for inexperienced people to tell the difference between an American crocodile and the other native crocodilian, the more common American alligator. The following are some of the major differences between the two:
| Crocodile | Alligator |
| Grayish green color | Black in color |
| Fourth tooth on lower jaw exposed when mouth is closed | Only upper teeth exposed when mouth is closed |
| Narrow tapered snout | Broad rounded snout |
| Young are light with dark stripes | Young are dark with yellow stripes |
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SE Florida is also home to an established exotic species, the common or spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus).
You can find more information about alligators and crocodiles at the links on the following page http://myfwc.com/gators/other_crocs.htm.