M​ark Perpetua's Reptile Encounters

The American crocodile is the only true crocodile native to the United States. They are found in the US along coastal habitats in Southern Florida. Their Range extends south through Mexico, Central America and into South America as well as several Caribean Islands. 

American crocodiles are known for spending time in marine environments be more tolerant to salt then some other crocodilians including the American alligator. American crocodiles use special slat glands located in their tongues to remove excess salt from their body. Because of this many Floridians will call American crocodiles "saltwater crocodiles". However, the American crocodile is a completely different species then the Australian Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosis). 

American crocodiles are large crocs measuring up to 15 feet long and weighing over 800 pounds. They are normally shy and reclusive. A. crocodiles feed on a number of different prey from fish to birds and mammals.

American crocodiles are listed as a vulnerable species