Will opportunistically take other animals such as rats. Young alligators grow rapidly, and females reach sexual maturity around 4 to 5 years of age. Breeding behaviour begins during the Summer, when the alligators are more active at night. Mound nests are constructed from decaying plant materials, in a similar way to those of A. mississippiensis , although A. sinensis nests are smaller. The nests are constructed between July and August, after which between 10 and 50 eggs are laid.
Clutch size is usually slightly smaller than A. mississippiensis .
The incubation period lasts around 70 days. Despite their timid nature, Chinese alligators have historical associations with the mythical Chinese dragon, yet these have not saved this species from human impact. Alligator sinensis probably holds the unenviable distinction of being the world's most endangered crocodilian, particularly when taking conservation pressure into account. Habitat destruction is a major cause of decline, with most wetland areas being modified due to human population pressures. The building of dams is a major factor in this destruction.