By: Tristin

 Physical Characteristics The American Alligator can be up to 18 feet long, but females are smaller. It can weigh pounds; however females are smaller. The American Alligator’s color can be green, brown, and black.

 Lifespan The American Alligator can live years in the wild. They can live years in captivity like at a zoo or animal reserve.

 Diet The American Alligator is a carnivore. That means it eats meat. The American Alligator eats fish, turtles, mammals, birds, and other reptiles.

 Population There is an estimated number of American Alligators in the south eastern United States is several million. That’s not as many as you might think.

 Habitat The states the American Alligator are found in are Florida, southern Texas, Louisiana, North and South Carolina. Their habitats are swamps, rivers, ponds, and wetlands.

 ADAPTATIONS Teeth : The American Alligator’s teeth help it rip and tear flesh from its prey. Tail : The American Alligator’s tail helps it knock its prey off its feet and to swim. Muscle : The American Alligator uses its muscle to overpower its prey.

 Fun Facts Did you know that in 1897 Florida declared the American Alligator their official state reptile?

 WHY ARE THEY ENDANGERED The American Alligator is endangered because they are dying out due to habitat loss. They are endangered also because they were hunted for their leathery skin.

 REFERENCES Defenders of the Wild