What is the Average Alligator Life Expectancy?

 

They say that age is only a number. That’s true in the animal kingdom. Some animals live hundreds of years old, meanwhile, some insects like mayflies only live for one day. Alligators and crocodiles are also known for their longevity. Like their dinosaur cousins, these reptiles are hardy survivors. But how long do these massive creatures live? The answer will throw you for a loop.

 

The alligator is one of the oldest living species in the world. The Alligatoridae family has been around for 37 million years. They’re not dinosaurs nor are they descendants of these reptiles. But they do belong to the same reptile group. Alligators don't live long like giant tortoises. But they’re no slouches in that department either. American alligators reportedly live about 30 to 50 years in the wild. But gators in captivity live longer. Many can live up to 70 years old.

 

There’s a reason for the discrepancy in life expectancy. Gator hatchlings and juveniles are in danger from predators. They're also at the mercy of their environment. It’s only after they grow at least four feet long that gators are safe from predators. American alligators live long lives. It’s not surprising that those in captivity survive longer than their wild brethren. They live in a safer alligators habitat. They also have a steady food supply.

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