Crocodylus acutus

By Griffin Page
Naturalist ~ Eco-guide

Almost everyday, as I take my dearest customers out on a tour, and discuss with them the immense biodiversity that can be encountered in our bay; I find them to be surprised when I mention crocodiles. "There are crocodiles here?" they ask, with a look of astonishment on their faces. Yes, and they need to be protected as they are a very important part of the ecosystem they inhabit and only approximately 4 females are old enough to reproduce. "Wow! Where?" they exclaim and ask, and I reply: not too far from our airport.


Adult American crocodiles.
Photo courtesy of Monachí


Indeed, there are approximately 150 American crocodiles in the Boca Negra area (estuary of "Majahuas"). Of the 23 species of crocodiles that exist in the world, 3 are found in Mexico . The American crocodile (the biggest in this country and one of the biggest in the world) is often called Caiman by mistake. As crocodiles go, in Mexico , we can also encounter the Central American crocodile ( Crocodylus moreletii ) and the Brown Caiman (crocodylus chiapasius ), which is actually in the Alligatoridae family, making it, in reality, an alligator. But these last two species are not found in Jalisco.


What is the difference between Crocodiles and Alligators? There are many similarities and the differences can be painstakingly difficult to enumerate. But as a general rule, Crocodiles have an upper jaw and bottom jaw that are relatively the same width, allowing us to see the lower teeth when mouth is closed, and have a snout that is more pointed. Alligators, on the other hand, have an upper jaw that is generally wider than their lower jaw, hence not showing the lower teeth when mouth is closed and tend to also have a shorter, wider and more rounded snout.How did it get its name? Crocodylus is derived from the Greek krokodeilos which means literally "pebble worm" (kroko = pebble; deilos = worm, or man) referring to the appearance of a crocodile. acutus (Latin), means "sharp" or "pointed" referring to the shape of the snout.

Juvenile Photo courtesy of: Monachí

Now, let's get back to our own American crocodiles. This crocodile was first discovered by Cuvier in 1807 and is the second most widely distributed of the New World crocodiles, ranging from the southern tip of Florida , both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico , Central America, and northern South America, as well as the Caribbean islands of Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola.


Distribution Map
Courtesy of: Internet

One of the largest known populations is in Lago Enriquillo, a landlocked hypersaline lake situated 40m below sea level in the arid southwestern Dominican Republic . The American crocodile is a relatively large species, with males having maximum lengths of 5ñ6m range, although some 7m (23 feet) individuals have been reported. This species is characterized by the most reduced and irregular dorsal armor (osteoderms) of any crocodilian. They are usually light grey with larger scales protruding along their backs and inhabit both freshwater (including river, lakes and reservoirs) and brackish coastal habitats (including tidal estuaries, coastal lagoons and mangrove swamps). Here in the bay, they occasionally travel along the coastal shores and can sometimes reach man-made lakes in golf courses which means they have to be relocated to their principal area.

Baby crocodiles will primarily feed on insects but juveniles and adults will eat fish, frogs, turtles, crustaceans and small mammals. It seems they have a culinary preference for dogs so be advised. Although crocodiles are thought to be more aggressive than alligators, this trait varies between individuals. Occasional reports of attacks on humans have been heard of, but authenticated records are very rare. Respect of their environment and space should keep you well away from danger.



As for how long they live, the data is not clear. However, there is a known crocodile that is 80 years old and is still fertile. Interestingly, this species is one of the rare ones where the father takes an active role in the care of his young. Females will attain sexual maturity when they reach 2.5m. (8 feet) in length and the different populations will adapt their mating strategy to suit the environment. Courtships can last for up to 2 months after which the females will dig their subterranean nests or will build mounds when suitable nesting areas are not available. The minimum number of eggs laid in the nest can be around 20 in some populations, but is usually between 30 and 60, the average being around 38. After approximately 90 days, the young hatchlings will come out of the egg and will measure around 25cm. (10 inches).


Hatchling - Photo Courtesy of
Roberto Rodríguez Coberón


Decline in numbers was primarily due to demand for the high-quality skin of this species, mainly from 1930 to 1960 - and it is perhaps ironic that this high-value skin now makes sustainable use management programs feasible. Presently, continuing hunting (on a lesser scale) combined with habitat destruction are the most immediate threats. Sanctuaries big enough to accommodate good sized populations and protection are good ways to insure the survival of this essential and most intriguing species.


ìNature could be such a wonderful teacher if only we saw it for what it really isî ~ Monachí

Natural Treasures invites you to witness the beauty and to lend a hand in the conservation
of our natural environment.

Griffin Page is a nationally certified whale watching guide as well as a very knowledgeable eco-tour guide. She helps in the research and conservation of Humpback whales and Olive Ridley marine turtles by conducting informative tours here in our Bay. Information on how you can reserve your activities, give donations and other necessary materials is available through her. Join her in this wonderful endeavor!

You can contact her through:
Natural Treasures Vallarta at:
011-52-322-297-6525 or
044-322-888-4617 (from Puerto Vallarta )
naturaltreasuresvallarta@yahoo.com