Today's Dinosaurs
Of the 23 species of crocodilians living |
Alligators are apex predators and consume fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. They play an important role in the wetland ecosystems through the creation of “holes,” which provide both wet and dry habitats for other organisms. All year long, but particularly during the breeding season, Alligators “bellow” to declare territory and locate suitable mates. Male Alligators use infrasound to attract females. Eggs are laid in a nest of vegetation, sticks, leaves and mud in a sheltered spot in or near the water. The sex of an Alligator is determined by the temperature of the nest. Temperatures below 88 degrees produce females. 88 and above produces males. Hatchlings are born with yellow bands around their bodies and are protected by their mother for up to one year. They feed mostly on invertebrates and are referred to as juveniles.