Alligator

I was worried I'd mix him up with a crocodile at first, but his broad, rounded snout is a dead giveaway. He's been a steady presence by the water, and it's honestly reassuring knowing he's part of the order Crocodylia, just doing his thing.

I’ve been watching this big fella patrol his territory, and the way he snaps his jaws shut is astonishingly fast—much quicker than I expected from such a large reptile. He’s been reliably soaking up sun on the bank every afternoon, blending perfectly into the muddy water.

The scales feel incredibly tough and durable, almost like armor, which gives real peace of mind. I've had it for a few weeks now, and it's honestly fascinating to watch how it moves and interacts with its environment.