Yes, American Crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) are present in the Florida Keys, though they are generally rare and secretive compared to the more common American Alligator. The subtropical environment of South Florida, including the Keys, represents the northernmost extent of the American Crocodile’s natural range, which stretches down through the Caribbean and Central and South America. The Florida population has rebounded significantly due to successful recovery efforts.
Identifying the American Crocodile
Distinguishing the American Crocodile from the American Alligator is straightforward based on several physical features. Crocodiles have a lighter, often grayish-green coloration, contrasting with the darker hide of the American Alligator. Their snouts also differ; the crocodile possesses a narrower, more pointed snout that forms a distinct “V” shape at the tip.
The most telling difference is visible when the animal’s mouth is closed. An alligator has a broad, U-shaped snout and an overbite that completely hides its lower teeth when its jaws are shut. Conversely, the crocodile’s upper and lower teeth interlock, leaving both sets visible along the jawline, creating a “snaggle-toothed” appearance. This visibility is most noticeable with the fourth tooth on the lower jaw, which projects upward outside the upper jaw line.
Preferred Habitats in the Florida Keys
The American Crocodile prefers brackish and saltwater environments. This tolerance for salinity is due to specialized salt glands on their tongues, which allow them to excrete excess salt. They congregate in coastal lagoons, protected coves, and the dense, tidal mangrove swamps of the Florida Keys.
The population is concentrated primarily in the Upper Keys, particularly around northern Key Largo, home to the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge serves as a significant nesting ground. Crocodiles also utilize man-made canal systems and protected shorelines throughout the Upper Keys for basking and nesting. Females often construct their nests on the elevated banks of these canals, which provide the well-drained soil necessary for successful incubation.
Understanding Crocodile Behavior and Safety
The American Crocodile is generally a shy and reclusive species. They actively avoid human contact and will retreat when startled. When a crocodile is seen basking in the sun to regulate its body temperature, approaching too closely will often cause it to splash loudly as it flees into the water.
Documented incidents of human-crocodile bites in Florida are extremely rare, typically involving high-risk behaviors such as swimming late at night in known habitats. To minimize conflicts, residents and visitors should maintain a respectful distance if a crocodile is sighted, generally keeping at least 30 feet away. Safety rules include never feeding any wild reptile and keeping pets away from canals or mangrove edges.
Conservation Status and Recovery
The species was placed on the federal Endangered Species List in 1975 after its population dropped significantly due to habitat loss and historical hunting. Protection efforts focused on safeguarding remaining habitat, leading to the creation of the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Key Largo in 1980.
Due to sustained conservation work, the Florida population has rebounded significantly, now estimated to be between 1,500 and 3,000 individuals. This recovery led to the species being officially downgraded from endangered to threatened status in 2007. The crocodile’s continued existence is secured by strong state and federal legal protections that prohibit harassment or harm.