American Crocodile

The largest reptile in Panama, reaching up to 5 meters in length. This apex predator of Panamanian rivers and mangroves is a prehistoric survivor that has barely changed in millions of years.

Crocodylus acutus, the American crocodile, is the largest reptile in Panama, with males exceeding 5 meters in length and weighing up to 500 kg. It is distinguished from the caiman by its longer, narrower snout and visible lower teeth even with a closed mouth. It inhabits brackish and fresh waters: mangroves, estuaries, rivers, and Gatun Lake in the Panama Canal. It is an opportunistic predator feeding on fish, birds, turtles, and mammals. It is classified as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting. Mothers fiercely protect their nests during incubation.

Habitat

Rivers, estuaries, mangroves, and coastal lakes on both coasts of Panama