American alligators live in the southeastern portion of the United States, with largest populations residing in Florida and Louisiana. The Chinese alligator is native to China.
Alligators split their time between sunbathing on land and hunting for prey in bodies of water. They create "gator holes" that are used for protection from the elements and hibernation. The alligators dig these holes using their snouts and tails.
Alligators tend to live near abundant food sources. Adult alligators consume snakes, fish, turtles, birds and small mammals. Alligators don't see humans as prey. They do have a natural fear of humans, and they will attack if threatened. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, it is rare for an alligator to chase a human.
