1. By: Tristin

2.  Physical Characteristics The American Alligator can be up to 18 feet long, but females are smaller. It can weigh 450-600 pounds; however females are smaller. The American Alligator’s color can be green, brown, and black.

3.  Lifespan The American Alligator can live 35-50 years in the wild. They can live 60-80 years in captivity like at a zoo or animal reserve.

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

5.  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.

6.  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.

7.  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.

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

9.  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.

10.  REFERENCES Defenders of the Wild. 2012. www.defenders.org