by Erin Byers

Created on: September 25, 2008   Last Updated: February 12, 2009

Do you know the origin of the word alligator? A lot of people think of a voracious swamp dwelling reptile. The word alligator was actually derived from the Spanish word, el legarto, which means the lizard. When Spanish settlers came to Florida, they encountered a large, unfamiliar reptile which they believed to be a huge lizard. Later, when English sailors came to the New World, they adopted the Spanish term that we now know as alligator. There are many myths about alligators today and this was just the first.

Alligators are a misunderstood animal prone to stereotypes and urban legends such as alligators in the NYC sewer system or in people's toilets. Alligators have in fact been reported in NY. Could they survive in that environment and breed? The answer is no. The New York climate is too cold for these reptiles to live for long periods of time. Another myth is that they mutate as albinos in order to survive the darkness. This is also false, as the environment is not conducive for alligators to breed for any amount of time. The conditions are cold, harsh, and downright disgusting!

Alligators are not native to New York. In fact their range is from North Carolina southeast to the Rio Grande in Texas, and China. Yes, China! Only two species of alligator exist: The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and the Chinese Alligator (Alligator sinensis). The Chinese Alligator found only in the Yangtze River valley and is considered endangered. The American Alligator, found in the southeastern US, was at one time considered endangered. The Chinese Alligator is at grave danger and there are policies and programs in place to protect the species.

Alligators belong to the order Crocodilia. Crocodiles and alligators are related and often confused with one another. There are ways to tell them apart. The snout of an alligator is much more broad and stout in comparison to the slender snout of a croc. Also, the fourth tooth on the lower jaw of the crocodile is visible when the mouth is shut, unlike the alligator's which is covered up. Alligators also have more of a U-shaped snout than crocodiles, which have a V-shaped snout.

Did you know that southern Florida is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist? Alligators definitely outnumber the crocodiles, yet this is the only place in the world where you will find both of these creatures. Alligators deserve respect, as does any reptile. But these docile reptiles don't deserve a bad name!

Learn more about this author, Erin Byers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.