Rare crocodile makes home in Cape Coral

A rare American crocodile has emerged from the waters surrounding Cape Coral in recent days.

Florida is the only place in the world where crocodiles and alligators exist in the same ecosystem.

Crocodiles are rare in Lee County waters. Only a few have been documented in recent decades.

Males in the wild typically grow to 14 feet, according to the National Park Service. These are not to be confused with Nile and saltwater crocodiles found in Africa and Australia. Those species are more dangerous and aggressive.

While dangerous, American crocodiles are known for their shy, reclusive nature.

Florida’s nesting crocodiles are found mostly near the Turkey Point Nuclear Generating Station in Miami, where warm-water discharges provide ideal nesting conditions.