Terrifying, toothy, and with tears you can never trust, crocodiles are fearsome predators. But added to their ability to lay perfectly still with mouth agape for hours on end is the most powerful bite in the animal kingdom. Now research has shed light on exactly how crocodilians got their bite, and it's thanks to a second jaw joint which helps to spread out the full force when their teeth snap shut. New research has shed light on how crocodiles and alligators get their bite. The reptiles have a second joint in their jaws which helps to spread out the full force of their powerful bites, stabilising the jaw and keeping grip.