Nile Crocodile
Crocodylus niloticus
Class
Reptilia
Order
Crocodylia
Family
Crocodylidae
Nile Crocodile
Range
Tropical and southern Africa and Madagascar
Size
Length: Avg. 12 - 16 ft
Weight: Avg. 900 to 1,100 lbs
Habitat
Rivers, freshwater marshes, and mangrove swamps
Young
Clutch: 25 - 80 eggs
Incubation: 3 months
Diet
As an adult, its diet consists mainly of fish, but will also go after huge prey such as young hippos, lions, giraffes, buffalo, and even humans.
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Nile crocodile is the largest crocodilian in Africa and the second-largest in the world (after the saltwater crocodile).
The Nile crocodile can reach up to 20 feet long and weigh over 1,600 pounds.
From Water's Edge to Land
The Nile crocodile mainly takes its prey when they are at the water's edge, but it will also launch itself onto land in pursuit of a potential meal.
Crocodile Climate Control
Crocodiles are "ectothermic", which means they regulate their body temperature by using the surrounding environment. If they get too hot, they might gape to release heat through their mouths, or slide back into the water.
Protecting Young
If baby crocodiles are in danger, the mother may pick them up and flip them into her mouth or throat pouch for protection.
Our Animals
Scarlet Hatched July 5, 2000
