American Alligator Facts
Alligator mississippiensis
American alligators are large crocodilians native to wetlands of the southeastern United States. Their ponds and nesting mounds can create shelter and habitat for other wetland species.
- Habitat
- Freshwater
- Diet
- Fish, turtles, birds, mammals, and other aquatic prey
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years in the wild; up to about 50 years in captivity
American Alligator Facts at a Glance
American alligators are large crocodilians native to wetlands of the southeastern United States. Their ponds and nesting mounds can create shelter and habitat for other wetland species.
It belongs to the family Alligatoridae in the order Crocodilia. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; source links below support further reading.
American Alligator Habitat
American Alligators live in Freshwater and Wetland habitats across Southeastern United States. Their range depends on places that provide suitable food, shelter, and conditions for raising young.
What Do American Alligators Eat?
American Alligators are carnivore animals. Their diet includes Fish, turtles, birds, mammals, and other aquatic prey, and the food available in their habitat shapes how they find, hunt, or forage for meals.
American Alligator Lifespan, Size, and Weight
An american alligator typically lives for 20–30 years in the wild; up to about 50 years in captivity. Adults measure about 260–460 cm and weigh around 90–450 kg; these ranges can vary with sex, age, habitat, and access to food.
American Alligator Conservation Status
American Alligator is listed here as Least Concern. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.
Quick facts
- Region
- Southeastern United States
- Habitat
- Freshwater, Wetland
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years in the wild; up to about 50 years in captivity
- Size
- 260–460 cm
- Weight
- 90–450 kg
Fun facts
- The sex of hatchlings is influenced by the temperature of the nest during incubation.
- Adults can survive cold spells by resting with their nostrils above freezing water.
- Alligator holes retain water during dry periods and provide refuges for other wildlife.
- Mothers guard nests and may carry newly hatched young gently in their jaws.
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Sources and image credit
Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under its linked license.
