Alligators can jump 6 feet into the air from a state of rest, despite large bodies and short limbs. They demonstrate quick bursts of speed, to chase down prey that initially seems too fast and unattainable; therefore, observers are advised to stay at least 20 feet in distance from alligators.
Two extant species of alligator exist: the American alligator and the Chinese alligator. The American alligator is moderately larger than its Chinese relative; it grows to approximately 13 feet in length and 800 pounds in weight, as an adult alligator. Young alligators often live together in close proximity, while larger, older ones are solitary animals that sometimes engage in territorial disputes.
