American Alligator

Description:

The American alligator has a large, slightly rounded body, with thick limbs, a broad head, and a very powerful tail. Adult alligators generally have dark grey or nearly black color. They may at times appear to be lighter based on detritus or algae in the water covering their skin.

Habitat:

American alligators are mostly found in the Southeastern United States, from Great Dismal Swamp in Virginia and North Carolina, south to Everglades National Park in Florida and west to the southern tip of Texas. They are found in the U.S. states of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Florida and Louisiana currently have the largest population of alligators. Florida has an estimated population of 1 million while Louisiana has an estimated population of 1.5 million.

Notes:

Spotted at the "Children's Zoo" exhibit of the Bronx Zoo.