The alligator belongs to America, where it is distributed extensively both in North and South America.

In the Spanish parts it is called `caiman,' and there are two species well-known, viz the spectacled caiman of Guiana, and the alligator of the Mississippi.
No doubt, when the great rivers of South America have been properly explored, it will come to light, that there are other varieties than these.

I have heard of a species that inhabits the Lake Valencia in Venezuela, and which differs from both the American species mentioned.
It is smaller than either, and is much sought after by the Indians for its flesh, which these people eat, and of which they are particularly fond.

It is probable, too, that new species of crocodiles may yet be found in Africa and the islands of the Indian Ocean.
"Now I think it is a well-ascertained fact, that all these varieties of the crocodile family have pretty much the same habits,--differing only where such difference might be expected by reason of climate, food, or other circumstances.

What I shall tell you of the alligator, then, will apply in a general way to all his scaly cousins.