The American alligator Length 6 ft to 19 ft 2 in. Alligators play an important ecological role during a drought. Alligators are typically black, with yellowish or cream crossbands that become less apparent with age. Alligators and crocodiles are closely related, but it's easy to tell the difference. Alligators have broad, rounded snouts and don't have exposed fourth teeth on their lower jaws.
Crocodiles have narrow, pointed snouts and do have exposed fourth teeth on their lower jaws.
Methods of hunting Alligators are excellent swimmers and typically lurk in the water and wait for their prey. They use their huge mouths and powerful jaws to quickly grab unsuspecting prey in or near the water. Alligators have jaws designed for ripping and tearing flesh rather than for chewing it. Once an alligator has clamped its jaws down on its prey, it rolls in the water. This allows the alligator to rip bite-sized sections of flesh off its prey for easy eating.