Mississippi alligator – New resident

The American alligator, also known as the Mississippi alligator, is one of North America's most fascinating reptiles. With its powerful body, broad snout, and impressive teeth, it can grow up to six metres long. However, despite its sometimes fearsome appearance, it is usually calm as long as it doesn't feel threatened. The females are also very caring mothers, guarding their nests and helping the young to the water after hatching. The young then stay close to their mother for about a year before they are ready to fend for themselves. The American alligator is a master of stealth. It can lie almost completely still in the water with only its eyes and nostrils above the surface. When prey comes close enough, it attacks swiftly! Despite being a reptile, the American alligator can surprisingly withstand the cold well. During cold periods, it can lower its metabolism and sometimes poke its snout through the ice to breathe. The American alligator is considered a keystone species in its wild habitat, as it digs burrows that retain water during dry periods, which benefits not only themselves but also other species.

CITES II