American Alligator | Welsh Mountain Zoo

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis


  • Not Evaluated
  • Data Deficient
  • Least Concern
  • Near Threatened
  • Vulnerable
  • Endangered
  • Critically Endangered
  • Extinct in the Wild
  • Extinct

Originating from Southern areas of North America, the American Alligator can grow up to an impressive 4.6 m and live well into their 50’s. Renowned for their ‘death roll’, an alligator will carry their prey in their mouths and break into smaller pieces to make for an easier kill.

Native Range →

South east United States

Natural Habitat  →

Freshwater areas

Diet  →

Carnivorous: fish, turtles, snakes, mammals and birds

Life Expectancy  →

In the wild: 35-50 years. In a zoo: 70+ years

Breeding  →

Up to 88 eggs. Around 65 days incubation

Group Name  →

A congregation

Active Hours  →

During the night

Threats  →

Loss of habitat, Hunting

Fun fact

An alligator can go through over 2,000 teeth in its lifetime.

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