Chinese Alligator
Alligator sinensis
A full-grown Chinese alligator is only about half as big as its cousin,
the American alligator. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is shy and
too small to be much of a threat to humans, yet human activities are
pushing it along the path toward extinction. Habitat loss, collection,
over-hunting and direct persecution are putting the survival of the
estimated 150 Chinese alligators remaining in the wild at risk.
Fact file:
Length: Up to 6.5 ft
Weight: 50 – 65 lbs
Habitat: Rivers, streams, marshes and other bodies of water
Prey: Primarily aquatic animals such as fish and mussels, and some
land animals
Current Range: Eastern China