CROCODILES VS ALLIGATORS
The differences between these cold-blooded creatures are more than skin deep
WORDS AILSA HARVEY
The tail makes up about half of an alligator’s length
If you were to encounter one in the wild, you might find it difficult to determine whether you’re looking at a crocodile or an alligator. They spend much of their time submerged below the water, expertly camouflaged and ready to launch their snapping jaws if need be.
Crocodiles and alligators are separate families, but are both members of the order Crocodylia. This means they share very common features and characteristics, from their elongated snouts decorated with dagger-like teeth to their muscular tails used to propel them through the water or as a thrashing defensive weapon.