Spectacled caiman in exhibit

Spectacled Caiman

Scientific Name
Caiman crocodilus
Class
Reptilia
Order
Crocodylia
Range
Central and South America
Habitat
Rivers and floodplains
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
Spectacled caiman in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern

More Information

Spectacled caimans were named for the bony ridge above their eyes, which resembles a pair of glasses. Adults are dull green and can grow to more than six feet in length. They primarily eat fish, insects, frogs, birds, and even mammals. After breeding, females lay eggs in nests built with mud and leaves.

Did You Know?

To survive during periods of extreme heat, spectacled caimans burrow into the mud and enter a state of hibernation.

Juveniles have a yellow tint and black bands, both of which disappear with age.

Animal Care staff working with seal

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Asian small-clawed otter in exhibit

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African penguin eating a fish

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