Native to the Southeastern U.S., the American Alligator is an apex predator, consuming fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Adult males average 11 feet and 500 pounds while smaller females average 8.5 feet and 200 pounds. The largest reported alligator, measuring 19 feet 2 inches, was a male killed in 1890 on Marsh Island, Louisiana. Alligators can live up to 50 years.  When courting, both sexes make a low-frequency bellowing sound. Eggs are laid in a nest of vegetation, sticks, leaves, and mud in a sheltered spot in or near the water. The American Alligator is the official state reptile of three states: Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Exhibits: Flint River Gallery & Spring Run Creek