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American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

Big Cypress National Preserve

Southern Florida

USA

 

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), sometimes referred to colloquially as a gator or common alligator, is a large crocodilian reptile endemic to the Southeastern United States. It is one of two living species in the genus Alligator within the family Alligatoridae.

 

Adult male American alligators measure 11.2 to 15.1 ft in length, and can weigh up to (999 lb). Females are smaller, measuring (8.5 to 9.8 ft) in length.

 

The American alligator inhabits freshwater wetlands, such as marshes and cypress swamps from Texas to southeastern and coastal North Carolina.

 

American alligators are apex predators and consume fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Hatchlings feed mostly on invertebrates.

 

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Uploaded on August 5, 2019
Taken on July 30, 2019