a hand full of newborn American crocodiles at Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay

American crocodile

Crocodylus acutus

size: 2.2 to 3.4 m (7.2-11.1 ft.)

habitat: coastal mangrove swamps, saltwater lakes

diet: fishes such as bass, tarpons, mullet

status: endangered

key facts: In contrast to the American alligator, the American crocodile is primarily brown and has a narrower snout. In the United States, the American crocodile is found only in South Florida, including the Florida Keys.

an infant American Alligator rests on a lilly pad at Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay

American white pelican

SeaWorld/Busch Gardens Animal Information Database
www.seaworld.org / www.buschgardens.org