Alligator Vs Crocodile Essay

When it comes to animals, more than half the population has no knowledge of how to differentiate between each species. It is difficult to differentiate between species that are similar to one another. For example, alligators and crocodiles are often mistaken to be the same species. Coming face to face with a crocodile or an alligator, you'd see a mouth full of serrated teeth that would likely frighten you. The two reptile groups are close relatives, so their physical similarities are expected. Besides being close relatives, crocodiles and alligators also share a common habitat and diet, while having physical differences as well as similarities. Alligators and crocodiles are not only both reptiles, but they both share a common ancestor (North Carolina Aquariums). They both belong to an animal family called the crocodylidae. Both crocodiles and alligators have existed relatively unchanged for the last 55 million years, and they have similar ancestors that first appeared 200 million years ago. This means that they have existed since the time of the dinosaurs. Aside from some small evolutionary changes, both animal species have changed little since they first appeared on earth. Alligators are not usually dangerous to humans
They are cold-blooded animals that utilize little energy when they move. They cannot regulate their own internal body temperature, and must rely on external heat sources such as the sun. They also do not have to eat as much or as often as mammals and other warm-blooded animals, despite the fact that alligators and crocodiles are known for their carnivorous eating habits. As reptiles, both animals have tough, scaly hide. According to Bryner, crocodiles have longer and thinner snouts than alligators. The teeth of a crocodile are visible, even when the crocodile's mouth is closed, while alligator teeth are invisible until the mouth is