Cuban crocodiles are one of the most endangered species today. They came from the Crocodylidae family and belong to the genus crocodylus. There are no current records of any subspecies but there are at least two hybrids. They have small size which is unlikely different from their reptilian cousin is the American crocodile.
Their appearance is particularly similar with the American crocodiles, well, unlikely the size because their average size is 11.5 ft and some claims to have been reached about 16 ft. The males tend to be larger than the females. Unlike other type of crocodiles, they have 6-7 wide scales behind their neck. Their eyes, ears and nostrils are located in the same plane in their short, broad head allowing them to see, breath and hear underwater. The nictitating membrane which is an extra, clear eyelids added some importance in allowing them to see brightly in the water. When still young, their eyes have pale iris which turns into brown with age. Their teeth are extremely strong and sharp that they can chew a whole turtle. With a total of 66-68 teeth, the fourth tooth found on each side of the lower jaw is very long which can be seen even if they close their mouth. They have dorsal shield of scale in their back running through their neck. The legs and tails are very strong also which are covered with scales. They are given a common name of pearly crocodile because of the sprinkled yellow and black color in their skin. This enormous reptile can live for around 100 years.
Speaking for their habitat, they are commonly found in freshwater swamps and marshes. They are distributed to many known islands like Cuba, Cayman and the Bahamas. They are very good in swimming but can walk also. They love to take sunbathing during the day and be on warm water every night to regulate their body temperature. .
With regards to their food, the juveniles only eat arthropods and small fishes. As they grow, they require large intake of food, that's why they attack any preys including mammals, fishes and turtles. Since their teeth is very strong, it seems that the teeth are purely designed in crushing turtle shells. The powerful, hind legs are also great help for them to hunt in land. As for their breeding, there are only limited facts about how they breed. One thing is for sure, they breed every month of May and ends a month later. After a successful matinng, the females will then lay about 60 eggs and will have to wait for 70 days before the eggs to hatch.
They are enlisted in the most endangered species not because of human threats but due to their small habitual geographic location. In some other way, the humans are considered to be the top reason for their population problem.
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