Crocodiles and alligators are large reptiles found in tropical regions. They can be told apart by comparing the shape of the shape of the snout: the crocodile has a pointed snout whereas the alligator’s snout is rounded. In addition, an alligator’s teeth are invisible when its mouth is closed. In the crocodile, the lower fourth tooth remains visible.
Crocodiles live in rivers and swamps live in salt water, inhabiting brackish swamps on the coast. They can move about on land by using their four short legs, but most of their times is spent floating in the water with their eyes and nostrils just above the surface. They feed on fish, birds, and small mammal, seizing them in their great jaws. The crocodile can close its mouth powerfully, yet the muscles that open the mouth are so weak that a man can hold the jaws shut. Crocodiles are more aggressive animals than alligators. There are 14 species found in the tropics all over the world.
There are only two species of alligator. One lives in the south-eastern United States and the other in China. They are fresh-water animals and resemble crocodiles in their habits. Men catch crocodile and alligators and sell their hides for leather. The leather is popular for making handbags, shoes and belts.