Chuck Ripper: American Crocodile

Artist: Chuck Ripper
1929 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1996
Image Size: 12.5 by 14.5 inches
Overall Size: 15 by 17.75 inches
Medium: Gouache Watercolor on Masonite

Reaching 12 feet in length with scores of spindly scales and 70 razor-sharp teeth, the American Crocodile is one of the most intimidating and spectacular reptiles of the Caribbean region. Limited to tropical climates because of its vulnerability to temperature change, the cold-blooded Crocodylus acutus also dwells in Cuba, the Island of the Pines, Hispaniola, Jamaica and along the northeastern coasts of Venezuela and Columbia. Discovered in southern Florida in 1975, the American Crocodile frequents the coastal waters and estuaries of the Everglades, occasionally venturing into the shallow waters of the flat lands and mangrove swamps. By day, the creature is but a coarse log floating motionless in the water. At sunset, however, its nightly search for prey begins. The reptile's lengthened muzzle is ideal for catching its main diet of fish, although crabs, birds, dogs, turtles and even other crocodiles can find their way onto the menu of a hungry croc. The American Crocodile has a natural enemy in the jaguar (raccoons and bears also prey on its eggs and young), but the principle predator of Crocodylus acutus is mankind. Incessant hunting has depleted crocodile populations to minimal levels throughout its range, and to virtual extinction in such places as the United States, Cuba and Columbia. Now legally protected everywhere but in Jamaica, the American Crocodile depends on the staunch preservation of its remaining habitat for survival.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover for the U.S. 20¢ American Crocodile issued October 2, 1996.

Artwork Copyright © 1996 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.

Our Stock Number (SKU): XB15505

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