Name

Nile Crocodile

Scientific Name

Crocodylus niloticus

Characteristics

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.

Diet

Fish is the main diet of the Nile crocodile, but it will attack almost anything that crosses its path!

Size Fact

They can weigh up to 1000kg.

Food Fact

The Nile crocodile can eat up to half its body weight in one feeding.

Fun Fact

The sex of the young is determined by the temperature at which the eggs are incubated.

IUCN Red list

The Nile crocodile is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Where do I live?

The Nile crocodile has a wide distribution throughout sub-Saharan Africa and is also found on Madagascar.