American Crocodile

The prehistoric-looking American crocodile insists on warm weather, and during its 70-year lifespan lives only at the southernmost tip of Florida in the mangrove swamps of the Everglades. Baby crocodiles thrive in the brackish water of these swamps, where they can live in saline conditions but still have access to fresh water. They purposely consume water-laden prey, drink fresh water, and avoid extra salt intake. But with rising sea levels, saltwater will flood the Everglades and spoil the freshwater that is critical to the growth and development of crocodile hatchlings.

Scientific name: Crocodylus acutus
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
Endangered Species Act List: Vulnerable
Region: Southeast