Thursday, October 22, 2015

American Alligator

American Alligators, Alligator mississippiensis at Laguna Atascosa.
One of only two species of Alligator, the other found in China, the American Alligator thrives in the water of southeastern states from North Carolina to the Rio Grande in Texas. While most often found within the freshwater of slow-moving rivers, alligators can also be found in swamps, marshes, and lakes. They are carnivorous, reach maturity when reaching 1.8 m (6 ft) in length, and are recorded to live around 50 years in the wild and up to 80 years in captivity. The sex of hatchlings is based on the temperature of the nest with all being males if temperatures are 33.8°C (93°F), all females if at 30°C (86°F) or below, or a mix of both if the nest temperature falls between. With the help of state and federal protection, habitat preservation efforts, and a reduced demand for alligator products, the American alligator has gone from an endangered species to a thriving population of over one million as of present day.


Note: Apologies for the lack of post on Tuesday! It was not intentional, but rather an honest mistake of exactly what day it was (not Monday, as I kept thinking). Don't worry, I'm good now! ;) 

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