American Alligator

Albert is one of the oldest living American Alligators in zoos across the country. His exact past is unknown and has spurred many West Texas tall tales of his origination to the Abilene Zoo.

Scientifically known as Alligator mississippiensis, the American Alligator is a fascinating reptile that has been the subject of curiosity and admiration for centuries. This spectacular species features among elite species as it plays a significant role in maintaining ecosystem health and balance. Here at the Abilene Zoo, you can catch sight of these striking Gators and delve in detail into their ecological roles and what sets them apart from their fellow reptilians. Here are the essential traits of these aquatic majesties.

Diet

American Alligators are carnivorous predators occupying the highest trophic level of the food chain. They feed exclusively on a variety of prey, including fish, birds, mammals, and other reptiles. Their diet varies depending on their age and size. Young alligators consume insects, amphibians, and small fish before gradually moving on to bigger prey as they grow. This diet variation is intentional and crucial for their development and survival.

American Alligators engage in ambush and active hunting strategies too. They often lie in wait, camouflaged by the water, before launching a swift attack on unsuspecting prey. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth enable them to catch and consume a wide range of kills.

Habitat

American Alligators are native to the southeastern United States, primarily Florida and Louisiana. They inhabit, almost exclusively, freshwater environments such as slow-moving rivers, wetlands, swamps, and lakes. In exceptional cases, they can crash in saline habitations but only for a short while as they lack the glands necessary for salt excretion.

Size and Weight

American Alligators are among the largest reptiles in North America. Males typically reach lengths of 11 to 15 feet and can weigh between 500 to 1,000 pounds, while females are generally smaller, averaging 8 to 10 feet in length and weighing around 300 to 500 pounds.

Migration

While American Alligators are not known for long-distance migrations, they exhibit seasonal movements within their home ranges, often influenced by changes in water levels, temperature, and prey availability. Alligators may move to deeper water areas during the colder months or burrow into mud to avoid freezing temperatures.

American Alligator Sounds

American Alligators make myriad sounds, from deep bellows, roars, and hisses, to chirps for communication purposes during mating seasons and territorial displays.

Conservation Status

The American Alligators’ story is the epitome of conservation success. Once listed as an endangered species due to overexploitation and habitat loss, their status has improved significantly over the past few decades. Stringent conservation measures and effective legal protections saw to it that its populations bounced back, and today, they’re classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Fast Facts

Alligator Albert scaled e1622927076214 min (1) 1 min

Saving Species

In 1973 American Alligators were listed as Endangered, but thanks to the hard work of conservationists like accredited zoos, we have rebounded their population in the wild.

Scheduled Examination for Iconic Abilene Zoo Alligator

June 5, 2021- Albert the Alligator, a resident of the Abilene Zoo since 1966, is scheduled for a medical examination due to prolonged lethargic activity and inappetence.  The Veterinary and Animal Care teams will examine Albert early next week, where they will draw blood and perform a variety of medical tests. 

Albert e1622926700235 min
Play Video about Albert e1622926700235 min

Gallery

Other Animals You Might Like

Striped Skunk

Mammal

Meet

Our Striped Skunk

The Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) is a small, nocturnal mammal known for its distinctive black...

View

Swainson’s Hawk

Bird

Meet

Our Swainson’s Hawk

The Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is a remarkable bird of prey native to North America,...

View

Bobcat

Mammal

Meet

Our Bobcat

The bobcat is a medium-sized wild cat found throughout North America. This elusive feline is...

View

Tell us what you looking for?

World Giraffe Day is June 24th - GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!