American Crocodile

Crocodylus acutus

The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is a large reptile reaching up to 6 meters, though most adults are 3 to 4 meters. Distinguished from alligators by its narrow, V-shaped snout and lighter olive-grey coloring, it is one of the most widespread crocodilian species in the New World. Found from southern Florida through the Caribbean and Central America to northern South America, and along the Pacific coast from Mexico to Peru, it inhabits coastal areas, mangrove swamps, river mouths, and brackish lagoons at depths of 0 to 5 meters. Unlike most crocodilians, this species tolerates and regularly enters saltwater. It feeds on fish, turtles, crabs, birds, and occasionally larger prey. In recent years, underwater encounters with American crocodiles have become possible at specific managed sites such as Chinchorro Bank in Mexico and Gardens of the Queen in Cuba, where experienced guides facilitate safe close-up observation of these magnificent ancient predators in their natural habitat.