The Alligator genus embraces the American Alligator, (A. mississippiensis), of the southern United States and a small species found in China! The head of the Alligator is very flat and its sides are nearly parallel, while the head of a typical crocodile is nearly triangular.
The American Alligator is well represented in the Pool in the Reptile House, by several lusty specimens, all of which eat voraciously, are growing rapidly, and undoubtedly enjoying life. The largest specimen, a burly monster over twelve feet in length, has grown nearly five feet in length since its arrival here in 1899.
In summer, the Alligator Pool on the hill, southeast of the Reptile House, is well stocked with alligators of various sizes, and it is there that visitors can secure most realistic impressions of the appearance of this species in a state of nature, and in abundant numbers.
ALLIGATOR POOL.
Under favorable conditions,—warm water and air, good light, plenty of room, and abundant food,—the Alligator grows rapidly. A specimen hatched in our Reptile House in October, 1900, was in January, 1911, 8 feet 3 inches long, and weighed 75 pounds.
The Crocodile genus is widely represented throughout the world. Of the whole eleven species, the American continent contains four—the Florida Crocodile, (Crocodilus acutus floridanus), attaining a length of 14 feet, which was discovered at the head of Biscayne Bay, in 1875, by W. T. Hornaday; the American Crocodile, (C. acutus); the Sharp-nosed Orinoco Crocodile (Crocodilus intermedius), found in South America; and the small Crocodilus rhombifer, which is found only in Cuba and the West Indies.
Of the seven remaining species, Asia contains four, and Africa three. Of the Asiatic species, one frequents salt water.
The Florida Crocodile is now represented by two specimens nearly 9 feet long, from Madina Creek, southern Florida, presented by Mr. Julian A. Dimock. It is to be recognized at a glance by its dark olive color and sharp-pointed head. This is the only species of crocodile found in the United States. Its maximum length is 14 feet 2 inches.
