Alligators are practically synonymous with Florida, with 1.3 million of our scaly neighbors found in all 67 counties. Even places we probably don’t want them to be.
But many Floridians are not as familiar with our other large reptilian resident — the crocodile.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates that the number of Florida crocodiles has increased to 1,500 to 2,000 adults, up from an estimated 300 in 1975. Described as shy and reclusive, they are typically found in brackish or saltwater areas, as well as ponds, coves, and creeks in mangrove swamps.
Can you find crocodiles in your backyard as easily as you can find gators?
How far north are American crocodiles in Florida?
American crocodiles live in coastal areas throughout the Caribbean and occur at the northern end of their range in South Florida and the Keys, according to the FWC.
See map of where American crocodiles are spotted in Florida
Here’s how to identify a crocodile
Crocodiles have key differences from alligators:
Are crocodiles invasive to Florida?
No, American crocodiles are native to the state.
The American crocodile is protected as a threatened species by the Federal Endangered Species Act and as a Federally-designated threatened species by Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species Rule.
Is Florida the only state with both crocodiles and alligators?
Yes, Florida is the only state that houses both alligators and crocodiles.
Are caimans found in Florida?
Yes, FWC reports that the common caiman has become established in the southeastern part of the state. It is an invasive species, native to Central and South America.
They note caimans are found primarily in freshwater canals and lakes and rarely exceed 5 feet in length.
Samantha Neely is a trending reporter for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida, covering pop culture, theme parks, breaking news and more. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Alligators are everywhere but how far north are crocodiles found in FL?
Reporting by Samantha Neely, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Fort Myers News-Press
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