A Commonplace Book

Category: alligators and crocodiles...

  • alligator (from Spanish 'the lizard') has a shorter, blunter snout than a crocodile; crocodile is from Greek meaning 'worm of the stones'
  • the fourth tooth in each side of the lower jaw of the crocodile projects outside its mouth when closed
  • alligators and crocodiles hiss and roar
  • of all reptile brains, the crocodile brain is the most highly developed and they are the last living link with the dinosaur-like reptiles of prehistoric times and the nearest living relative to the birds
  • knowing to run very fast and zig-zagged if chased by a crocodile or alligator
  • crocodile mothers keeping vigil for 90 days over their eggs
  • seeing Native Americans wrestling alligators in Florida
  • crocodilians are divided into three families: alligators and caimans, true crocodiles, and the gavial
  • the American crocodile can survive freezing conditions, unlike other crocodilians

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