How to easily spot the difference between alligators and crocodiles . Look for these subtle, but once you know them, clear differences between these two apex predators. Trending News: While alligators and crocodiles share a fearsome appearance, key differences set them apart. Snout shape, tooth visibility when mouths are closed, an Crocodile vs. Alligator : Key Differences Explained in Habitat, Behavior, and Appearance EllieB Imagine standing on the edge of a murky swamp, the air thick with humidity and the faint rustle of unseen creatures. Suddenly, you spot a powerful reptile gliding through the water. Is it a crocodile or an alligator ? At first glance, they seem almost identical, but these ancient predators hide fascinating differences that go far beyond their toothy grins. You might think it’s just a matter of ... Alligators live along the edges of permanent bodies of water. They spend most of their time in the water, hunting, but they spend the early part of the day on land, basking in the sun to increase their metabolism.