The common term used for big carnivorous lizards in Florida is alligator, and while that type may be the most common across the fresh water spaces, they are not all gators. There are other types which look distinctly different (as if most folks would stand around to identify), and have different characteristics in behavior.
Crocodile
- Habitat: Thrives in both saltwater and freshwater.
- Snout: Long and pointed.
- Size: Often larger, some species exceed 20 feet.
- Distribution: Found globally in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Australia.
Caiman
- Habitat: Prefers freshwater, dwelling in rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
- Snout: Robust and broad.
- Size: Generally smaller, ranging from 4 to 8 feet.
- Distribution: Native to Central and South America.
Alligator
- Habitat: Flourishes in freshwater habitats like swamps and slow rivers.
- Snout: Broad and rounded.
- Size: Adult males typically reach 10 to 15 feet.
- Distribution: Primarily found in the United States and China.
