Because we have both! Yes, SWFL is the ONLY place on earth where alligators and crocodiles co-exist! VIP Realtor Iris Aloia took these amazing pictures in her backyard on the north end of Sanibel. And since she moved here from Alaska, she has learned how to tell the difference. Iris suggests there are 4 questions to ask to make that determination:
- WHAT IS THE SHAPE OF THE SNOUT? Alligators have broad, U-shaped ones, while crocodiles have narrow, V-shaped snouts.
- ARE TEETH VISIBLE? If the answer is yes, it’s probably a crocodile. They have a notably large fourth tooth….and once you have seen one, you won’t forget it!. That tooth is huge and scary. Think “Jurassic Park”. However, lower teeth of alligators are not usually visible when their mouth is closed.
- WHAT COLOR IS IT? Gray or black? It’s probably an alligator. Crocs are more tan or olive.
- IS IT SALTWATER OR FRESHWATER? Crocodiles are usually found in saltwater, while alligators prefer freshwater.
Laying calmly in the water, it’s hard to assess their behavior. But, behavior is another differentiator. Crocodiles are typically more aggressive than gators.
So the answer to the question, “ What did Iris take a picture of?” is, you guessed it, an alligator! For more information about living with wildlife, visit MyFWC.com or stop in the VIP Realty Sanibel & Captiva office and chat with our experienced realtors. They have a wealth of information about all aspects of island life!
Photos courtesy of VIP Realtor Iris Aloi
VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239.472.5187 Open Daily for your convenience: Monday – Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM; Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
#VIPRealtySanibelCaptiva #sanibelvacationrentals #islandlife #dreamhome #closetothebeach #myfwc #sanibelrealestate #captivarealestate #pearltheblogger