American Alligator

The American alligator, declared an endangered species in 1967, has since then slowly increased in numbers throughout its native range, which encompasses the southeastern United States. Although alligators grow to a maximum length of 6 m (20 ft), the average is about 1.5 m (5 ft). American alligators feed on carrion, birds, mammals, other reptiles, and amphibians. Since alligators and other crocodilians are not able to chew their food, they either swallow small animals whole or twist off pieces of larger animals and swallow those whole.

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