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Crocodila
Alligators and Crocodiles
© Bernat Garrigós
Fun Fact!
Most crocodiles have a broad, V-shaped snout, in contrast to the U-shaped snout of alligators.
Unique Characteristics
- Crocodilians are the only reptiles that possess a four-chambered heart (like birds and mammals).
- Crocodilians are the only group of reptiles with a nictitating membrane: a transparent,
- third eyelid that can be drawn across the eye to protect it while still allowing vision.
- Crocodilians exhibit advanced maternal care not found in most other reptiles.
- The "death roll" is a unique hunting behavior seen only in crocodilians.
- This involves grabbing prey and spinning rapidly in the water to tear it apart.
Characteristics
- Size: Generally large, with some species exceeding 7 meters.
- Body: Long, muscular, and cylindrical; adapted for powerful swimming.
- Head: Broad, triangular with long, strong jaws and sharp, conical teeth.
- Skin: Tough, armored with bony plates (osteoderms).
- Eyes, Ears, Nostrils: Positioned on top of the head for breathing and sensing while mostly submerged.
- Tail: Muscular, used for swimming and propulsion.
- Habitat: Semi-aquatic; found in freshwater and saltwater environments.
- Diet: Carnivorous, ambush predators, feeding on fish, birds, and mammals.
- Behavior: Territorial, opportunistic feeders, and capable of social interactions in certain situations.
- Reproduction: Oviparous (egg-laying), with temperature-dependent sex determination and some parental care.
- Swimming Adaptations: Webbed feet and strong tail for swift swimming.
- Lifespan: often over 70 years in the wild.
