On the brink, the Chinese alligator's fight for survival

The Chinese alligator, native to eastern China, is critically endangered with only 130 left in the wild. Known as the Yangtze alligator, it is one of the smallest crocodilians. It has a stocky body with hard scales and blunt teeth for crushing shelled animals. Its diet includes fish, insects, birds, and small mammals. The alligator inhabits subtropical freshwater areas, but these habitats are shrinking due to agriculture and poaching. Fortunately, they breed well in captivity, with successful programs in wildlife refuges and zoos.

Where is the Chinese alligator primarily found?

• Southern China

• Western China

• Northern China

• Eastern China

What is a unique feature of the Chinese alligator's teeth?

• They are sharp for tearing meat

• They are blunt for crushing shells

• They are long for catching fish

• They are flat for grinding plants

Which of the following is NOT part of the Chinese alligator's diet?

• Clams

• Insects

• Birds

• Large mammals

What is a major threat to the Chinese alligator's natural habitat?

• Climate change

• Agriculture

• Deforestation

• Urban development

How have conservation efforts helped the Chinese alligator?

• By changing their diet

• By relocating them to other countries

• By breeding them in captivity

• By increasing their natural habitat