While crocodiles are not native to Oklahoma, the state is home to American alligators. Both are large, ancient reptiles with powerful jaws. Understanding their distinctions clarifies why only one species naturally inhabits Oklahoma’s waterways.
Oklahoma’s Native Crocodilian
The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is the crocodilian species found in Oklahoma. This reptile is native to the state, with records indicating their presence since at least the late 1800s. Historically, their populations faced challenges, but successful nesting in southeastern Oklahoma confirms their established presence. Researchers study these populations to understand their dynamics and ensure their continued survival within the state’s ecosystems.
American alligators are cold-blooded that thrive in warm, freshwater environments. Adult males can grow up to 15 feet long, while females typically reach nearly 10 feet. These reptiles are equipped with strong jaws containing about 80 teeth, which they use to capture prey. Their bodies are covered in bony plates, and their eyes, ears, and nostrils are positioned atop their heads, allowing them to remain largely submerged while observing their surroundings.
Alligator Versus Crocodile
Distinguishing an alligator from a crocodile involves observing physical characteristics. Alligators possess a broad, U-shaped snout, adapted for crushing hard-shelled prey. In contrast, crocodiles typically have a narrower, V-shaped snout, suited for catching fish. A difference lies in their teeth; when an alligator’s mouth is closed, its lower teeth are mostly hidden within the upper jaw, but a crocodile’s large fourth lower tooth remains visible.
Habitat preferences also separate these reptiles. Alligators primarily inhabit freshwater environments such as swamps, marshes, lakes, and rivers. They have a lower tolerance for saltwater due to less functional salt glands on their tongues. Crocodiles are more tolerant of saline conditions and can be found in brackish or saltwater habitats. This physiological difference, along with Oklahoma’s freshwater systems and climate, makes the state suitable for alligators but not for native crocodiles.
Alligator Habitats in Oklahoma
Alligators in Oklahoma are primarily found in the southeastern part of the state, which represents the northwestern edge of their natural range. Their preferred habitats include marshlands, swamps, and the slow-moving waters of rivers and lakes. Specific locations include the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area and the Little River National Wildlife Refuge.
The counties with the most established alligator populations are Choctaw and McCurtain, as well as parts of Bryan and Love counties. These areas offer permanent water sources and abundant prey for alligators to thrive. While occasional sightings may occur outside these typical southeastern regions, such as the alligator in Claremore Lake, these are isolated incidents, often attributed to illegal releases, as the climate further north and west is too cold for sustained alligator populations.
Living Alongside Alligators
Coexisting with alligators requires awareness and adherence to safety guidelines, particularly in areas where they are known to reside. Maintain a safe distance from alligators and avoid approaching them, especially if they are basking on land or near water bodies. Feeding alligators is strongly discouraged, as it can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate people with food, leading to potentially dangerous encounters.
Keeping pets on leashes near water is also important, as alligators can mistake them for natural prey. If an alligator appears disturbed by your presence, move away calmly. Alligators generally do not chase humans on land; if they approach, it is often a bluff or an attempt to reach the water if you are between them and their escape route. For nuisance alligators or those found outside their typical range, report the sighting to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.