Status and nesting biology of the American crocodile, Crocodylus acutus (Reptilia:Crocodilidae) in Florida
Ogden JC. 1978. Status and nesting biology of the American crocodile, Crocodylus acutus (Reptilia:Crocodilidae) in Florida. Journal of Herpetology. 12(2):183-196
This study was conducted between 1968 and 1975, primarily in Florida Bay (Everglades National Park), and was designed to measure the size and range, general habitat characteristics and factors regulating nesting success of C. acutus. These data are intended to update and supplement those presented by Moore (1953). Results indicate that the nesting range has been considerably reduced including continued reduction in Florida Bay since it became a part of Everglades National Park in 1950. Crocodiles in this area are mound nesters, utilizing beaches, creek banks, and canal levees as nesting sites. Females maintain mounds that are used repeatedly over many years. Mean clutch size is 44; about 48% of the eggs hatch in successful nests. Nesting failures are due to raccoon predation and temperature problems in certain types of nests. Population numbers of crocodiles may have ranged between 1,000 and 2,000 during the early 1900's, but that total has declined to the present range of between 100 and 400 animals. Factors that regulate the population are discussed. Study Period: 1968-1975; Study Type: Qualitative; Number of Stations: Ten nesting sites; Habitat: Beaches, creek banks; Biological Component: Marine reptile (Crocodilean); Abiotic Parameters Measured: Nest temperature; Dominant Taxon/Taxa Studied: Crocodylus acutus.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Ogden, John
- Units
- EVER
- Keywords
- American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), Animal Studies, Florida Bay Everglades National Park FL, Habitats, Nests & Nesting, Population, Range, Size