Baby alligators can't depend on their elders for a helping hand. In fact, young gators are a perfect bite to eat for large gator adults. Now, a new study finds that between 6 percent and 7 percent of young alligators fall victim to the cruel fate of cannibalism.

Why do alligators eat their own?

The species is found in ponds, swamps and marshes across America's southern states, including Texas, South Carolina and Florida. It is an apex predator, and may use cannibalism to keep its own numbers down and cut competition for food and resources, according to scientists.

How often do alligators eat each other?

Once a week is a typical feeding schedule for alligators living in the wild. Excess calories are stored in fat deposits at the base of the alligator's tail. Incredibly, by burning fat reserves, it is possible for an alligator to last more than two years between feedings.