Alligators vs. Crocodiles

What’s the difference between alligators and crocodiles? Let’s find out! 

If you’re lucky (or unlucky) enough to find yourself face to face with a crocodile or an alligator, they might look the same with their toothy grins and rough, bumpy skin. However, if you look closely enough, you’ll notice their snouts are not identical. Alligators have wider, U-shaped snouts, while crocodiles have a more pointed, V-shaped snout. Although they are different, they are both able to use their long snouts to hold onto prey. It makes ripping larger bites out of food easier and provides them with a greater advantage when hunting. 

Both crocodiles and alligators have large, knife-like teeth that are easily seen from the side; however, only the top teeth are visible in an alligator because their upper jaws are wider than their lower jaws, making their bottom teeth disappear when their mouths are closed. It’s just the opposite with crocodiles! Their upper and lower jaws are about the same width, so their jaws seem to interlock giving off a toothy grin when their mouths are shut. 

Similar to other animals, different species of crocodilians have varying temperaments. Despite their intimidating looks, alligators tend to be more passive and generally only attack when they feel provoked. On the contrary, crocodiles are more aggressive and will attack anything and everything in their way… including humans. (This may have played a role in our decision to open an alligator farm – not a crocodile farm.)

Here’s your invitation to see these differences firsthand! Take a stroll through the swamp along the boardwalk, and then stick around for a real treat with our daily live feedings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. You’re sure to make some memories you will never forget!