Chuck Ripper: American Crocodile

Artist: Chuck Ripper
1929 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1993
Image Size: 12.25 by 14.5 inches
Overall Size: 14.75 by 17.75 inches
Medium: Gouche Water Color on Masonite

Alligator shoes, purses and watchbands -- once common but costly fashion accessories -- are now scarce indeed, thanks to the protection granted alligators and crocodiles by nations around the world as well as the United States. Today, however, while America's familiar Mississippi alligator has rebounded from the brink of extinction, the American Crocodile remains endangered. Descended from dinosaurs, modern crocodiles are little changed from their prehistoric ancestors other than their more diminutive size. Unlike the alligators, true crocodiles have narrow, pointed snouts. They can also be identified by their more visible protruding teeth, which remain exposed at all times, creating a perpetually toothy grin. Further distinguishing crocodiles from alligators is their preference for salt water. Crocodiles have even been known to swim far out into the ocean, while alligators prefer fresh water. Found only in Florida and along the Gulf Coast states, the American Crocodile is the sole member of its species that naturally occurs outside the tropics. Though it is no longer in danger from the hunters who once avidly sought its hide for luggage and shoes, the American Crocodile is instead threatened by such unintentional dangers as motorboat propellers and loss of its habitat to development.

This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover of the United Nations Endangered Species Series 29¢ American Crocodile stamp issued March 18, 1994.

Artwork Copyright © 1993 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): XB14620

US$ Price: $2,700.00

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