The American alligator is found mostly in Florida and Georgia. However, it has also been reported in several other states, including North and South Carolina. The adult alligator can weigh more than 400 pounds. The length of its body is about twice the length of its tail. The alligator's diet depends on its age. Young animals prefer insects, shrimp, and frogs. The adults usually eat fish and small mammals, and they are known as fearsome predators. They breathe through nostrils on the top of their snouts, which means they can hide underwater. They sneak up to the edge of rivers and streams, and they can pull a fully-grown animal into the water with them. Many people mistake crocodiles for alligators. Both are found in the same environments. Both also have prominent snouts with many teeth. However, crocodiles have long, thin snouts with teeth in both jaws. Alligators have wider snouts, and they have teeth only in the upper jaw.
