HOW DO ALLIGATORS HUNT AT NIGHT?

Alligators are able to hunt at night using pressure receptors on their snouts that allow them to detect the slightest disturbances on the water surface around them.

American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

Alligator

The snouts and faces of alligators have pressure receptors— scientifically known as dome pressure receptors—that allow them to detect the slightest disturbances on the water surface around them. The receptors are tiny bumps lining the jaws of alligators and crocodiles that look like small dots.

According to Ask Nature, the receptors are so sensitive that they can detect the impact of a single droplet of water on the water surface, allowing alligators to identify and catch prey in darkness.