Yes, American Crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) are found in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding region of South Florida. The area sits at the northern extent of the species’ range in the United States. Fort Lauderdale, located in Broward County, is a transition zone where these large reptiles are occasionally present, though they are far less common than the American Alligator. Due to their increasing population, they are sometimes encountered in urban waterways connected to their preferred coastal habitats further south.
Distinguishing Crocodiles From Alligators
The first step in identifying a crocodilian in South Florida is to understand the physical differences between the American Crocodile and the American Alligator. The most obvious distinction is the shape of the snout. The alligator has a broad, rounded, U-shaped snout, while the crocodile has a long, slender, V-shaped snout that tapers to a point.
A second characteristic is the arrangement of their teeth when the mouth is closed. An alligator has an overbite, where its wide upper jaw completely conceals the lower teeth. In contrast, a crocodile’s upper and lower jaws are nearly the same width, causing the teeth to interlock when the mouth is shut. This leaves the fourth tooth on the lower jaw clearly visible on the outside of the upper jaw.
Coloration also offers a clue, though it is less definitive than jaw structure. American Alligators typically display a dark gray to black color. American Crocodiles are generally lighter, with a grayish-green or greenish-brown body color and a paler underside. A clear view of the snout and teeth provides the most accurate field identification.
The American Crocodile’s Specific Habitat
The presence of the American Crocodile in Fort Lauderdale is tied to the coastal geography of Southeast Florida. Unlike the American Alligator, which prefers freshwater, Crocodylus acutus thrives in brackish and saltwater habitats. Their primary Florida range is concentrated in the estuarine regions of Everglades National Park, Florida Bay, and the Florida Keys.
Fort Lauderdale and Broward County represent the northern boundary of the crocodile’s established range, meaning sightings here often involve transient individuals. These reptiles frequently use the extensive network of coastal canals and the Intracoastal Waterway to travel. The saltwater nature of these urban canals provides a suitable path for them to move north from core nesting areas further south.
Coastal areas with mangrove swamps, tidal creeks, and coves are their preferred places to live and nest. Proximity to the coast and connection to the Intracoastal Waterway allow crocodiles to occasionally venture into residential areas with docks and seawalls. The majority of the Florida population remains focused on protected environments south of Miami.
Safety Guidelines and Reporting Sightings
Coexisting with crocodiles requires maintaining a respectful distance and following safety guidelines established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Never attempt to feed a crocodile, as this is illegal and causes the animal to lose its natural wariness of humans. Always observe the animal from a safe distance, as crocodiles are a naturally shy species in Florida.
It is important to keep household pets on a leash and away from the edges of canals and waterways. Pets, especially small dogs, can be mistaken for prey near the water’s surface. Swimming should be restricted to designated areas and only during daylight hours, since crocodiles are most active between dusk and dawn.
If a crocodile is spotted and is causing concern, report it to the FWC’s Statewide Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). The FWC will dispatch a response agent to assess the situation. Because the American Crocodile is a federally designated threatened species, they are generally not removed unless they pose a direct threat to public safety.