Alligators are powerful, ancient reptiles that love lounging in freshwater swamps, rivers, and marshes—mostly in the southeastern United States and China. With their broad snouts, armored bodies, and super-strong tails, alligators are built for stealthy swimming and surprise hunting.
People often mix them up with crocodiles, but there are a few key differences. Alligators have wider, U-shaped snouts, while crocodiles have longer, V-shaped ones. Also, when an alligator closes its mouth, only its upper teeth show—crocodiles flash both top and bottom teeth.
Fun Fact
Alligators can stay underwater for up to an hour without coming up for air! They slow their heart rate to just two or three beats per minute—a cool trick for sneaky hunting.
