Alligator vs. Crocodile

Alligators and crocodiles are two similar types of reptiles that are frequently confused. They live in similar wet environments and are seen as dangerous predators.

An alligator is a species of reptile belonging to the order Crocodylia. Like all reptiles, alligators have backbones, dry, scaly skin, and are cold-blooded. They lay eggs from which their young hatch. Alligators are found living in the wild only in the US and China, usually in swampy areas or rivers. Although it cannot breathe underwater, an alligator can hold its breath for up to an hour.

A crocodile is an order of reptile that contains both crocodiles and alligators, among other relatives. Like all reptiles, crocodiles have backbones, dry, scaly skin, and are cold-blooded. They lay eggs from which their young hatch. Crocodiles are found living in the wild all over the world.

These often-confused reptiles can be distinguished by a few prominent features. Alligators have shorter, wider heads with a rounded snout. They prefer freshwater to saltwater. They are less aggressive than crocodiles and have a darker appearance. Crocodiles have longer, pointier snouts. When a crocodile's mouth is closed, its fourth tooth is visible sticking out. They prefer saltwater to freshwater.