At a glance
- IUCN category
- VU · Vulnerable
- Animal group
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Population trend
- Stable
- Last verified
Conservation overview
The American crocodile is a large, relatively shy crocodile of the Americas' coasts and estuaries. It is assessed as Vulnerable.
It tolerates salt water well and is found from Florida to South America.
Range & habitat
Coastal areas from southern Florida through Central America and the Caribbean to northern South America.
Major threats
Threats below are drawn from the authoritative sources listed on this page. For the current, complete assessment, see the IUCN Red List.
- Habitat loss and coastal development
- Historical hunting for skins
- Human-wildlife conflict
Why it matters
As a top coastal predator that has recovered in places like Florida, the American crocodile shows how protection can rebuild reptile populations while raising questions about coexistence.
Sources
Sources for American Crocodile
- IUCN Red List — look up American Crocodile (authoritative status)
- Animal Diversity Web
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the American crocodile dangerous to people?
It is generally more shy and less aggressive than some other large crocodilians, but it is a large wild predator and should always be treated with caution and respect.
Why is the American crocodile Vulnerable?
Published assessments cite habitat loss, coastal development, and a history of hunting for skins, though some populations have recovered with protection. See the IUCN Red List.
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