Posted by Daniel H on January 18, 2016, 9:36 pm, in reply to "Re: Doggy danger"
189.164.126.68
Why do alligators and crocodiles often sit with their mouths open?
This behaviour is called gaping and is done when the crocodilian is basking
in the sun. Experts think that this may cool the crocodilian. However they
also do this during rain and at night which suggests that gaping has
a social function as well.
https://www.vanaqua.org/learn/aquafacts/reptiles/crocodilians
"Crocodiles don't sweat. To keep cool, they open their mouths in a process
that is called "mouth gaping," which is a lot like panting".
Crocodiles are often confused with alligators, but there are some easy-to-spot
differences. An alligator's jaw is U-shaped, while a crocodile has a V-shaped
jaw, according to the San Diego Zoo.
http://www.livescience.com/28306-crocodiles.html
When crocodiles sit on river banks with their mouths opens, it's not
aggression. They're trying to cool off as they sweat through their mouths.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/wildlife/8831754/Crocodile-facts-ten-things-you-didnt-know-about-crocodiles.html
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