News Animals

Gator Feelings: Tough faces, more sensitive than ours

By Susan Milius

- More than 2 years ago

Alligators may not be the usual exemplar of delicate skin, but some of it is exquisitely sensitive. Gator faces carry pressure receptors so responsive that they can detect ripples on the water’s surface from a single falling drop.

DOTS AND EYES. Lying half-submerged in its typical pose lets an Australian saltwater crocodile monitor water disturbances with small, dark receptors dotted on its face.