Status and Nesting Biology of the American Crocodile, Crocodylus acutus, (Reptilia, Crocodilidae) in Florida

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Abstract
The status of the American crocodile in Florida [USA] and the factors regulating that population were examined. Estimates of the historical and present range show that the nesting range has been considerably reduced during the 20th century, including continued reduction in Florida Bay since that region became a part of Everglades National Park in 1950. Crocodiles in Florida Bay and on Key Largo are mound nesters, utilizing well-drained beaches, creek banks and abandoned canal levees as nesting sites. Females usually maintain primary and secondary mounds that are repeatedly used through many years. Average clutch size is 44; about 48% of the eggs hatch in successful nests, while the annual average number of successful nests is 65%. Most nesting failures are due to raccoon predation or failure of eggs to hatch, the latter probably a temperature problem in certain types of nests. The total number of crocodiles in south Florida early in the 20th century may have been between 1000-2000 animals, but that total has steadily declined to the present. Based on an estimated 20 breeding females/yr and an average 275 hatchling crocodiles produced annually, the 1970s population is estimated to be between 100-400 animals. Factors that regulate the population, including low nesting success, human disturbance and hurricanes are discussed.

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