Dominance + parental care in crocodil/ians

What does the dominance hierarchy in crocodiles mainly depend on?

Size-based ranks, with larger members having absolute linear power regardless of gender.

What behaviors do crocodilians use to show dominance?

Loud bellows, aggressive posture, bluffing, and slapping water.

How does population density impact crocodile hierarchies?

It can affect the strength and consistency of the dominance hierarchy.

What is extended maternal care in crocodilians?

It includes nest building, nest guarding, and post-hatch care of young.

How do American alligators care for their nests?

They build mound nests, protect the eggs, and stay close for about two months.

What does the mother American alligator do when the eggs are ready to hatch?

She rolls the eggs in her mouth to handle them carefully and brings them to water.

How long do newborn alligators remain under the mother's protection?

They are guarded for up to several months as they learn to hunt and find food.

Who primarily raises the young alligators?

The females do most of the raising, while males are mostly absent.