Of the many crocodilians available, caimans and alligators are the two most common in the pet trade. It is the closest thing to an alligator, indigenous to South America, and generally a bit smaller than its cousin to the north. Together they make up the family alligatorinae, so caimans and alligators are truly separate from other crocodilians. Alligators themselves are indigenous only to the southern United States and parts of China. You will know these reptiles by the wider head and jaws, darker coloring, and the fact that their lower teeth are concealed by the top of their mouths.
Males are the larger sex, so if size is an issue try to get a female.
You may also find that dwarf caimans are advertised. While they are on the smaller side, again, don t let someone swindle you. A four to five foot dwarf is more than enough reptile. Now that we know what alligators and caimans are we will discuss attitude in both the animal and the owner. Let s get something straight as pet owners, sightseers, and concerned citizens.