While American alligators are common residents in Florida, including the Destin area, American crocodiles are exceptionally rare and typically inhabit the southernmost regions of the state. Therefore, encountering a crocodile in Destin is highly unlikely.
Destin’s Primary Reptile Residents
American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are widespread throughout Florida, thriving in diverse freshwater habitats across the state. In the Destin area, these reptiles commonly inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, canals, and retention ponds within golf courses and residential developments. They can also occasionally be found in brackish waters, which are a mix of fresh and saltwater.
American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) have a much more restricted range in Florida, primarily residing in the southern tip of the peninsula. Their preferred habitats include mangrove swamps, coastal estuaries, and canals within saltwater and brackish environments, such as those found in Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys. Due to their specific habitat requirements and geographic distribution, the presence of American crocodiles in the Destin region is virtually non-existent. Any large crocodilian observed in Destin would almost certainly be an American alligator.
Telling Alligators and Crocodiles Apart
Distinguishing between an American alligator and an American crocodile involves observing their snout shape and tooth arrangement. Alligators possess a broad, U-shaped snout, which is wider and blunter. Crocodiles have a more pointed, V-shaped snout. This difference is often the most immediate visual cue.
Another distinguishing feature is their teeth when their mouths are closed. When an alligator’s mouth is shut, the upper jaw completely covers the lower teeth. With an American crocodile, the fourth tooth on its lower jaw remains visible, protruding upwards. Alligators generally have a darker, almost black coloration, while American crocodiles tend to be lighter, with a grayish-green or tan hue.
Staying Safe Around Alligators
Coexisting safely with alligators in Florida requires adhering to specific guidelines to minimize potential conflicts. Never feed alligators, as this can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate people with food, leading to dangerous behaviors. Feeding alligators is also illegal in Florida and carries penalties. Maintaining a safe distance from alligators, especially those in the wild, is important; observers should stay at least 20 feet away.
Keeping pets on a leash and away from the edges of bodies of water where alligators may reside is another important safety measure. Pets can resemble natural prey to alligators and are therefore vulnerable. Swimming should only occur in designated swimming areas during daylight hours, as alligators are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime. If an alligator appears aggressive or becomes a nuisance, particularly if it is larger than four feet in length and poses a threat, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Nuisance Alligator Hotline for professional assistance.