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Alligator mississippiensis
The American Alligator is one of two crocodilian species native to the U.S. The other being the American Crocodile. Male American alligators can reach lengths of 15 feet although it's not terribly common. Females are a bit smaller usually staying around or below 10 feet. Throughout their extensive range alligators are labeled as a species of "least concern", thriving in even the most urban of areas. Incidents with humans do occur and alligators are fully capable of killing adult humans. Fortunately they usually keep their distance from anything they view as a threat.
This species is highly adaptable as mentioned above. They seem to adapt fine to urbanization of habitat, often found in household swimming pools in within their range. They occupy ponds, lakes, wetlands, and swamps. In rare instances they can be seen in salt water.
Gators are always fun to see and watch. They're such a cool native species that I'm always glad to see around. There's something so primal about them that I find absolutely fascinating.
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