Book Everglades Airboat Rides and Get the Chance to See Gators in Person

1. Jungle Erv’s Book Everglades Airboat Rides and Get the Chance to See Gators in Person June 27, 2017 The alligator is perhaps one of the most iconic figures in the Everglades. For those not in the know, alligators have a wider U-shaped mouth, as opposed to the more slender snouts found in crocodiles. Of course, this little tidbit of trivia is far from the only interesting thing about the gator. Below are some fascinating facts that will make you want to book a tour of the Everglades to see them in person: They’ve Got Teeth—Lots of It One of the most distinctive features of alligators is their menacing maw. At any given time, an alligator will have around 74-80 pointy teeth in its mouth. Unlike with humans, however, when an alligator’s tooth falls out, it simply grows more of it. According to Wired, an alligator grows about 2,000 teeth over the course of its lifetime. Page 1 of 3 http://jungleervairboatworld.com

2. They’re Cunning Hunters While the alligator might seem all brawn, they’re surprisingly crafty creatures, too. For instance, alligators are known to balance sticks and branches on their heads. Unsuspecting birds looking for an ideal nesting spot will gladly approach this pile—and make an easy meal for the cunning alligator. Bet you didn’t know that! They Create Ecosystems There’s no doubt that the alligator is a fearsome predator, but it doesn’t just take from the environment; this reptile also gives back by engineering a unique ecosystem. Alligators create what are known as alligator holes, which are small ponds created when alligators remove dirt and muck in the ground. These depressions then fill with water, which serves as a reservoir when the dry season arrives. They’re Dedicated Moms That phrase might seem like an oxymoron, but consider this quirk: after crocodile eggs hatch, the mother gator gathers her kids into her mouth, using it as a kind of baby stroller. By doing so, she can bring her kids to the water while protecting them against other predators. Moreover, female alligators will babysit their young in this manner for up to one year. They Can’t Keep Themselves Cool or Hot As cold blooded creatures, alligators don’t have the same mechanisms to warm or cool their bodies the same ways humans do. Hence, if they feel hot, they go out for a swim; when they feel cold, they lay about on the shore to sunbathe. Alligators often swim or sunbathe together in groups called congregations. They Like Fruits Too! Alligators are primarily carnivores, eating fish, birds, small mammals, and mollusks. However, that doesn’t mean they won’t snack on a few plant-based foods every now and then. Alligators have been reported eating wild grapes, elderberries, and citrus fruits occasionally. There are so many fascinating things about alligators, and the best way to learn about them is to go on Everglades airboat rides. On this tour, you have the chance to see these majestic creatures in their full splendor in person. And if you have any questions, be sure to ask your trusty tour guide for more information. Jungle Erv’s Page 2 of 3 http://jungleervairboatworld.com

3. About Jungle Erv’s Airboat Tours: We are proud to be one of the pioneers in Everglades airboat tours. A proud homegrown company, Jungle Erv’s Airboat Tours is run by the same family that has been living in the area since the 1800s. Hence, those looking for the most authentic Everglades tour experience rely on us to show them the way. Sources: The Creature Feature: 10 Fun Facts About the American Alligator, Wired.com Facts About Alligators, LiveScience.com Jungle Erv’s Page 3 of 3 http://jungleervairboatworld.com