The American alligator is one of Florida’s top attractions. It might not draw in the crowds like Disney but many of the state’s visitors do come to see these reptiles. Who can blame them? Alligators might be the closest thing you’ll ever get to a dinosaur. They’re not one but they’re related to those magnificent creatures.
The gator is fascinating in its own right. There are many interesting facts about this reptile. Many people want to know how big can alligators get and their speed. For the record, most gators are between 8 to 12 feet long. They’re also fast for their size. They can run as fast as 35 mph, but they can only do this for a short period. They’re a bit slower in the water with their top speed clocking in at 20 mph.
One of the alligator’s distinguishing features is its teeth. Alligator teeth look scary. It’s easy to see how they can rip the limbs of their prey. Here are some interesting details about these pearly whites.
They’ll Go Through Thousands of Teeth
An adult gator will have around 80 teeth. These are sharp and conical in shape. Like us, their teeth will also fall out over time. But they are polyphyodont. This is a term for an animal with teeth that are always replaced. Sharks, saltwater crocodiles, and manatees are also polyphyodont.
So when an alligator’s tooth falls out, another one grows right back in. A gator reportedly goes through 2,000 to 3,000 teeth in its lifetime. The new teeth will grow below the older teeth, thus pushing them out. It gives the tooth a hollow appearance. Despite how it looks, a gator’s teeth are quite strong.
They Can’t Chew or Grind Their Food
There’s a good chance you’ve seen videos of alligators swallowing a whole chicken. These reptiles can’t crush or grind their food. It’s because they don’t have molars. It’s a surprising fact considering the dozens of teeth they have.
Aside from the lack of molars, a gator’s teeth are not as sharp as they look. Experts say they’re quite dull. They also can’t chew because of their massive jaw muscles. What they do is hold their prey in place with their teeth. They’ll then swallow it whole. Sometimes they will roll around with their prey. This helps them tear chunks of meat off the other animal.
What do alligators eat? They’re carnivores so fish, birds, and small mammals are part of their diet. They also chow down on insects, worms, and snails. Humans are not part of their diet although they might take a bite out of one in extenuating circumstances. For example, they might have mistaken a swimmer for food. This does happen. It’s also why visitors are always advised not to go swimming in Florida’s lakes at night.
They Have a Strong Bite
This isn’t a surprise considering how big an alligator gets. This creature has one of the world’s strongest bites. It can generate a staggering 2,980 PSI bite force. It’s no match for its salty cousin though. The saltwater crocodile has the strongest bite force at 3,700 PSI.
The alligator’s strong bite has a weakness though. Its jaw muscles are quite fragile. Anyone can overcome the gator by holding its jaws shut. You can even do this with your bare hands.
Learn More About the Sunshine State
There’s so much to see and learn about Florida’s wildlife. Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures can teach you a thing or two. We’re rated as the best airboat operators in Central Florida. Join us for an hour-long tour through the marshes and learn about our wildlife. You’ll see rare birds, manatees, and alligators. We guarantee you’ll learn and have fun. Our very own Captain Ron will also keep you safe throughout the tour. Schedule your tour here or give us a ring at 352-643-0708.