The American Alligator Recovery

The American alligator is a large reptile that lives in swamps, lakes, and rivers in the southeastern United States. By the 1960s, hunting and habitat loss had made them endangered. Strong laws helped alligators make a full recovery. Today, there are millions of them.

Hunted for Their Skin

People hunted alligators for their tough, scaly skin, which was used to make boots, bags, and belts. As swamps were drained for building, alligators also lost their homes. By the late 1960s, the American alligator was in serious trouble.

A Full Recovery

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 made it illegal to hunt alligators. Their habitats were also protected. The alligator population bounced back so quickly that they were removed from the endangered list in 1987. Today, more than 5 million American alligators live in the wild. It is one of the fastest conservation recoveries ever.

Fun Facts

• American alligators can grow up to 15 feet long and weigh more than 1,000 pounds!
• Alligators have been around for about 37 million years, making them living fossils.
• An alligator can hold its breath underwater for more than an hour.

Did You Know?

American alligators create pools of water called gator holes that other animals use during dry times, making them important for the whole ecosystem!