Crocodiles are frightening and dangerous beasts related to aquatic reptiles. They live throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia. Their body characteristics make them very ruthless predators. Today nearly 23 species of them are known, and the majority of species is endangered because of poaching.
This reptile is graded as one of the most aged animals in a world because it appeared at the same time when dinosaurs lived. Its skin is very precious and desired by a plenty of women and represents a status symbol for rich people and celebrities. Besides, it is too appreciated in fashion industry.
In the wild most of these animals live approximately 50 years, but there are also long-livers among them who live more than 80 years. Crocodiles prefer fresh meat and have 24 sharp teeth to hunt for fish, mammals, birds, other predators and little crocodiles. Despite on pointy teeth these animals don’t chew the food – just tear the prey apart and swallows pieces of meat. In case of problems with digestion they can swallow stones to break the meat to pieces. Crocodiles don’t have sweat glands, that’s why they are usually seen with their jaws wide open to cool.
Alligators and crocodiles are commonly confused with one another, but obviously they are not the same: crocodiles are bigger and have V-shaped jaw. Alligators are smaller, they have other-shaped jaw that is closed.