Crocodylus moreletii

(Duméril & Bibron, 1851)

Vernacular names
English : Morelet’s crocodile
French : Crocodile de Morelet

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Crocodylia
Family : Crocodylidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species can reach up to 3 meters. Armored body with very thick scales on neck. Small crocodile with short and broad head with powerful jaws. Coloration dark grey with dark markings on body and tail.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Central America, from northern Tamaulipas in Mexico to Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala and Belize. Lives in swamps and marshes in forested areas. Also near coastal areas.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species was declining because of over-trapping and habitat loss. Thanks to conservation programs, it has now recovered in many parts of range.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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