Are Alligators the Same as Crocodiles?

Are Alligators the Same as Crocodiles? No, but it often takes a very close look to see the difference. They are both long, scaly reptiles with long snouts and sharp teeth. The easiest way to tell the difference between them is to examine their faces.

The crocodile’s snout is long and narrow and pointed, while the alligator has a shorter, broader snout. Crocodiles have a longer, more V-shaped head whereas alligators have shorter, wider heads that are more U-shaped than crocodiles.

When the crocodile’s mouth is closed, large teeth in its lower jaw remain visible; the same teeth in the alligator are concealed inside a special cavity. Also, crocodiles generally grow to be longer than alligators.

Crocodiles are more aggressive than alligators. Alligators strongly favor freshwater while some species of crocodile live in seawater. Crocodiles in the wild are found all over the world while alligators are only found in the US and China.

Content for this question contributed by Shawana Goldson, resident of Springfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts, USA