Nile Crocodile
Crocodylus niloticus
Least ConcernFast Facts
About
The Nile crocodile is Africa's largest freshwater predator and one of the most powerful reptiles alive. An ancient, superbly efficient ambush hunter, it has changed little in form over tens of millions of years.
Lurking almost submerged with only eyes and nostrils above the surface, it lies in wait at the water's edge for animals coming to drink, then explodes into action with astonishing speed.
Behaviour
Nile crocodiles are capable of the 'death roll', spinning violently to tear chunks from large prey they cannot swallow whole. They may cooperate loosely at a kill and gorge enormously, then go for long periods without eating.
Despite their ferocity, they are remarkably attentive parents, with the female guarding the nest and gently carrying hatchlings to the water in her mouth.
Did you know?
- A Nile crocodile has one of the strongest bite forces ever measured in a living animal
- The mother gently carries her newly hatched young to the water inside her mouth
- They can go for many months without food after a large meal
- Nest temperature decides whether the hatchlings are male or female
Distribution
Freshwater habitats across sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile basin
