Fresh water slow-moving rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes of West Africa. The dwarf crocodile gets its name because it is the smallest of all crocodiles. Alligators and crocodiles are easily confused and exhibit several major physical differences.
Alligators have broader heads and blunter snouts.
Their lower teeth fit inside the edge of the upper jaw and cannot be seen when the lipless mouth is closed. The crocodile's fourth tooth in each side of the lower jaw is located lying in a notch in the upper jaw and is always visible. The teeth are used for seizing and holding prey instead of for chewing. They are replaced continuously as new ones grow up, forcing old ones out. Like all crocodiles, the dwarf has rigid teeth and tough scales, which cover the body.