Nile Crocodile
Scientific name: Crocodylus niloticus
Adult Nile crocodiles have a grey-olive coloured body and a yellow belly. The juveniles tend to be more green or dark brown in colour, with black cross banding on the tail and body. These ‘bands’ become fainter as they mature.
Nile crocodiles have many adaptations that make them particularly effective hunters. They have streamlined bodies, long weighty tails, webbed hind feet and long powerful jaws. The eyes, ears and nostrils are located on top of the head, allowing the crocodile to lie low in the water, hidden from prey. They have a special valve at the back of the throat that allows the mouth to be open to catch and hold prey underwater without water entering the throat.
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We live...
In the Reptile House, opposite the Porcupine enclosure.
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Size Fact
They can weigh up to 1000kg.
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Food Fact
Fish is the main diet of the Nile crocodile.
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Fun Fact
The sex of the young is determined by the temperature at which the eggs are incubated.
Adopt Me
You can support our conservation efforts and help with the costs of keeping rare and wonderful zoo animals by adopting a Crocodile. Adopt a Crocodile for yourself or as a gift.
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