World of Crocodiles: Species, Anatomy & Behaviors

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While crocodiles are often feared as aggressive carnivores, their behavior is deeply rooted in natural instincts. Contrary to common perception, crocodiles are marvels of the animal kingdom, boasting remarkable adaptations and behaviors that make them some of the most fascinating animals on the planet.

Crocodile Overview

Many people believe that crocodiles are dinosaurs. While their roots do date back to prehistoric times, they’re not in the same class as dinosaurs. However, they do share their ancestry with a group of animals known as archosaurs. One such example of this is the deinosuchus, a reptile thought to have lived as long as 82 million years ago.

Crocodiles belong to the Crocodylia order which contains different subfamilies including Alligatoridae (alligators and caimans), Crocodylidae (true crocodiles), and Gavialidae (gharials). All of these families fall under the Reptilia class, essentially meaning that crocs are reptiles.

Interestingly, dinosaurs were also considered reptiles and shared common traits with crocodiles including reproduction through egg-laying, scales, and relying on external heat sources to keep them warm, making them ectotherms.

Now, aside from the dino myth, crocodiles are also shrouded in mystery because of their incompatibility with human interaction. You don’t see people walking around with a pet crocodile (Steve Irwin aside) and that’s because crocodiles are incredibly territorial, particularly during breeding season when females are guarding their eggs in nest mounds. What’s more, they have the jaws, speed, and strength to attack anything that makes them feel threatened.

For this reason, in areas where crocodiles live alongside humans, there has been much conflict. However, education and habitat conservation are essential in allowing these magnificent creatures to exist harmoniously alongside their human neighbors. That said, they’ll never be an animal we can get close to and it is reported that there are hundreds of crocodile attacks on humans every year, especially in Africa.

Despite this, humans have always had a fascination with crocodiles. Even dating back to ancient Egyptian times, people worshiped a crocodile god called Sobek. There are even paintings that depict this god being used in religious ceremonies.

Even though humans have had conflicts with crocodiles, that doesn’t stop us from wanting to know more about them. There are crocodile farms that are designed to take some of the pressure off natural ecosystems. While the presence of crocs does have ecological importance in terms of population control, these apex predators do have the potential to place ecological threats on certain areas. What’s more, having the opportunity to farm these animals gives us a better chance to research their behaviors and learn more about them.

However, these animals are also farmed for their leather and meat. There is illegal activity going on, especially in places like West Africa but there are also many legal crocodile farms as well as laws that ensure the correct standards when trading crocodile skins.

In the wild, many crocodile species face threats. Aside from illegal hunting, crocs are faced with habitat loss. These animals are found in many environments, particularly lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Although the exact habitat requirements vary slightly by species. However, many crocs, such as the gharial, are losing habitat at an alarming rate due to human activity and river development.

Crocodiles can get extremely large but they’re not just big; they also live for a very long time with some species, like C. porosus living up to 70 years or more. They survive on a meat-based diet and are super efficient when it comes to catching prey. Being ambush predators, crocs will lie in wait until prey passes by before rushing out and snapping them up with their large jaws. For such big animals, they’re surprisingly quick and, when waiting for prey, they’re able to stay submerged for extended periods thanks to the ability to drop their heart rate to just 2-3 beats per minute.

While crocs are typically solitary animals, they will come together for certain activities like group hunting and breeding. They have various methods of communication including vocalizations like roars, growls, and hisses as well as chemical signals and body language cues.

Anatomy & Adaptations

Crocs have a very unique appearance but that’s not by chance. The way they look is imperative to their lifestyle and survival with several interesting adaptations that make their lives easier.

Head & Snout

Over the course of millions of years, the crocodilian head has evolved and adapted to suit its aquatic lifestyle and made it very effective as an apex predator. The very shape of their head, with its elongated snout ensures efficient movement through the water; essential when stealth is needed for hunting.

Another part of the croc’s head that comes in handy when trying to catch a meal is its jaws. These are among some of the most powerful jaws on the planet with a bite force of up to 3700 psi, depending on the species. Once prey is captured, these powerful jaws keep it from escaping.

When it comes to hunting, crocodiles rely on their binocular vision which gives them excellent depth perception, aiding in precision when catching prey. Their eyes are located on the top of the head, allowing them to submerge beneath the water but still keep a lookout for their next meal. Crocodiles also have a nictitating membrane which is a piece of thin tissue that covers their eyes for added protection when in the water. Many refer to this as a ‘third eyelid.’

You’ll notice that the nostrils are also placed on the top of the head which ensures the croc can still breathe while waiting in ambush. However, when they need to fully submerge, the nostrils will close to prevent the animal from inhaling water.

As they lie in wait, crocodiles don’t just use their eyes to hunt. They also have very sensitive hearing, despite their lack of external ears. Instead, they have small openings at the side of the head that enable them to hear sounds both in and out of the water. There are also some species, particularly alligators, that have heat-sensing pits on the snout which are excellent when looking for prey in low light. Many also have pressure sensors on their heads which allow them to pick up on even the slightest movement in the water. 

Skin & Scales

As I mentioned previously, crocodiles have sensors in their heads to detect heat and movement, and these are all located within the skin. But despite having super sensitive skin, crocs are also incredibly well-protected. This is thanks to the bony plates, known as osteoderms which act as a form of dermal armor, preventing the animal from sustaining injuries and making them incredibly resilient in their environments. But while their skin is incredibly durable, it’s also flexible, allowing for easy movement. 

But these bony plates aren’t the only component of crocodile skin; they’re also covered in scales of many different types, made from keratin. Each type of scale is designed for a specific purpose, proving how well-adapted these creatures are. The ventral scales, for example, are much smoother than other types and allow for smooth movement through the water. On the other hand, the large dorsal scales are robust and designed for protection. Amazingly, the scales of any individual are unique and this is a great way to identify a particular croc.

Of course, no matter what part of the crocodile’s skin we’re looking at, it’s clear that the coloration is perfectly designed for camouflage.

Crocodile skin is usually dark in color and this not only helps to conceal the animal but also helps with thermoregulation. Being ectotherms, crocs rely on external heat sources to stay warm so you’ll often see them basking in the sun. The dark color of their skin is much more effective at soaking up the rays.

While croc skin is very robust, it doesn’t last forever. Like many reptiles, these enormous animals will molt and regrow skin which ensures consistent protection. Typically they will molt once or twice each year although younger individuals may molt more often as they grow. As well as molting, crocodiles have the amazing ability to regenerate their skin after an injury. By looking at a crocodile’s skin you may notice growth rings that develop as they age; researchers find this very useful when monitoring croc populations.

Because they spend so much time in the water, it probably won’t be much of a surprise to learn that croc skin is water-repellent. What’s more, it has antimicrobial properties that ensure that the animal is protected from bacteria that are found in their habitats. Since many species also live in saline environments, special glands on their skin allow them to excrete excess salt and maintain their osmotic balance.

Their skin also has tiny pores that lead to scent glands. As I mentioned earlier, crocodiles often use chemical cues for communication, and that’s where these glands come into play. They’ll typically use this form of communication for things like attracting a mate or marking their territory.

Teeth & Jaw Structure

As apex hunters, crocodiles need to have strong teeth but it isn’t just about their power, the shape of the teeth is just as important. This shape will differ depending on the species but in most cases, the front teeth will have a conical shape which allows them to grip while the back teeth are flat with serrations that help the croc to crush its prey.

This tooth shape and the very structure of them in the mouth is one of the crocodile’s adaptations to ambush hunting. The power of their jaws, speed, and tooth structure ensures that the crocodile has no trouble gripping its prey as it passes by. Once the croc has grabbed its prey, it will typically perform what is commonly known as a death roll, ensuring the dismemberment of its prey. The croc will make several rapid spins and this, coupled with their powerful bite force (which varies among species with the saltwater crocodile having one of the most powerful) crushes bones and even the hard shells of creatures like the tortoise.

They’ll also use their teeth to show aggression and display warnings. This is usually coupled with other displays such as vocalizations and jaw snapping. On the flip side, the teeth can also be used for very gentle actions such as when female crocodiles help to crack their eggs as the young are emerging.

An interesting fact about crocodiles is that they don’t just have one set of teeth; they’re actually repeatedly replaced over the course of their lives in a phenomenon known as polyphyodont dentition. The benefit of this is that the teeth won’t lose their sharpness over time and will remain effective for hunting. Over the course of an individual’s life, they may have thousands of replacement teeth. Depending on the species they could have between 66 and 110 teeth at a time.

The crocodile’s teeth are incredibly sensitive which is another sensory adaptation that allows them to detect the movement of prey in the water.

Limbs & Tail

As well as having powerful jaws, crocodiles also have extremely powerful tails. So much, in fact, that they’re able to use their tails to push themselves backward into the water. This means minimal disruption and the ability to remain stealthy. This is all thanks to the strong laterally placed muscles in the tail which also aid in swimming as the crocodile moves the tail from side to side.

In terms of movement, the tail also serves as a balance mechanism when the animal is moving on land. Crocodiles are classed as quadrupeds but at times, they are able to demonstrate bipedal movements, although this is just in short bursts.

The tail has many other interesting uses. For example, females will use it when digging a nest for their eggs which they then cover with their entire body to protect it. During mating displays, the males will often incorporate tail movements to impress a female.

Going back to the locomotion of the crocodile, these animals are equipped with four legs which are located underneath the body. Each leg has clawed toes which help with grip and stability when moving on land. As they walk, you’ll notice that they move on their toes with their heels lifted off the ground which allows for much swifter movement. In the water, their webbed feet ensure smooth swimming.

The crocodile’s limbs are just as strong as other parts of its body with very powerful muscles in the hind legs.

Circulatory & Respiratory System

Moving inside the body of the crocodile, we find a fascinating respiratory and cardiovascular system. Their circulatory system isn’t all that different from ours with a heart that contains four chambers, ensuring efficient oxygenation of the blood. What’s really interesting is that crocodiles use a counter-current exchange form of blood circulation. Blood from the core runs in veins that carry blood from the extremities, reducing the risk of heat loss.

In terms of the respiratory system, crocs have dorsally located lungs which have an extra reservoir for air. This comes in handy when they’re submerged and lying in wait for prey with their nostrils above the waterline. However, this additional reservoir also means that they’re able to successfully dive and some species are able to hold their breath for up to 30 minutes. This is also due to their low metabolic rate.

As they breathe, the other internal organs of the crocodile actually move. This doesn’t cause them any harm and they’re perfectly designed for this with special muscles that aid the movement of the liver, leaving plenty of room for the lungs to expand. As they change the amount of air in their lungs, crocodiles are even able to control their own buoyancy.

While crocodile hearts are very similar to humans, the way they breathe is quite different and actually more similar to birds. The respiratory system is one-way meaning that inhaled air follows a circular path to the lungs and then is exhaled. 

As adults, crocodiles have valvular nares which are flaps over the nostrils that the animal can seal when it needs to submerge in water. However, when they’re still in their embryonic stages, crocodiles actually have gills and, over the course of their development, these gills eventually turn into the respiratory system they’ll have as an adult.

Reproductive Strategies

Crocodiles might not look like the most romantic creatures on the planet but they have their own unique ways of attracting a mate and reproducing.

Courtship & Mating Rituals

When trying to attract a mate, male crocodiles really know how to woo a lady. They’ll engage in courtship displays that include a range of vocalizations including a deep bellowing sound that can travel over a long distance. Not only does this tell females he is ready to mate but it also serves as a warning to other males that this is his territory. He may also exhibit other behaviors such as head bobbing and tail movements to assert his dominance. These are also pretty impressive to the females.

However, when it comes to choosing a mate, the females really do have the pick of the bunch and will select a mate according to the strength and size of the male. Of course, how he performs in his mating display also plays a role and it’s not uncommon for males to try and outcompete and fight one another in this aspect with impressive movements like lifting themselves out of the water or swimming next to the female. While he’s doing this, he may even attempt gentle physical contact or try to feed her to let her know he’s interested.

But finding a mate isn’t limited to vocal cues and physical movements. Crocodiles also use pheromones to let others know of their readiness to mate. What’s really interesting is that, unlike many animals, the courtship rituals of crocodiles can last for weeks or even months at a time.

Once a mate has been chosen, male crocodiles become very protective of their woman. They will remain close to her and won’t think twice about fighting off another male who may dare to approach her. This ensures that the male will have the greatest reproductive success. He’s even willing to participate in the protection of the eggs and the young once they hatch.

That said, there are some species of crocodilian that have multiple mating partners at a time. Again, this is a strategy to ensure the most successful chance at reproducing.

Nesting & Parental Care

When mating is complete, the female begins to prepare a nest for her eggs. She may do this in one of several ways including creating a nest mound or digging a hole. Some species may even lay their eggs in nearby vegetation. Females choose the location of their nest based on factors such as temperature and water availability. Once she lays her clutch of eggs, she will then cover them and allow them to incubate. The number of eggs in a clutch depends on the species. Some will lay around a dozen while others may lay hundreds at a time.

Interestingly, the temperature of the eggs influences the sex of the young in a process known as temperature-dependent sex determination. Where the temperature is higher, a male will hatch whereas cooler temperatures result in female offspring. 

During the incubation period, females are very protective of their nests and will guard them, warning predators with aggressive displays and vocalizations. She may need to defend the nest for weeks or even months before her eggs hatch. She’ll carefully turn the eggs and keep the nest moist to regulate the temperature. Some species will nest in close proximity to other females to ensure greater protection

What’s really amazing is that croc babies can actually communicate with one another while still inside their eggs using vocalizations. They do this to synchronize their hatching times, after which they use distress sounds to attract the attention of their mother who then moves them into the water using her mouth.

It’s unusual for reptiles to be so involved in the care of their young with many species simply abandoning them but not for croc moms. Males also play an active role in caring for and protecting the young, even helping to release them into the water. Some couples form very strong bonds after becoming parents and may even remain together after breeding has taken place.

While crocodilian parents do their best to care for their young, there may be times when resources are scarce and this can result in siblings attacking and eating one another. This is the perfect example of survival of the fittest.

Behavior & Lifestyle

It may seem as though crocodiles spend a lot of time basking on the river bank or submerging themselves in the water. But there’s so much more to these creatures than meets the eye. Let’s take a look at the interesting ways in which they live their lives.

Social Structure

As a rule, crocodiles are solitary by nature and spend most of their time hunting alone, only coming together when it’s time to breed. With some species, females may come together for communal nesting which ensures greater protection of the eggs and young. But even outside of this, crocodilians may be more tolerant of other individuals in the water than they are when on land and are much less likely to come to blows.

Otherwise, they can be very territorial and will mark their territory, doing everything to defend it. It’s usually the males that are more defensive and they won’t think twice about becoming aggressive in order to protect their territory. This becomes even more evident in areas with limited resources and males may make threatening jaw snaps or engage in physical fights.

The larger, stronger, and more aggressive a male is, the more likely he is to be at the top of the social hierarchy. These males typically get first choice of territory and are seen as the alpha males. What’s more, some species, like the saltwater crocodile, will migrate between territories and their aggression and behavior may change depending on the environment and available resources. During the breeding season, females have been observed moving up to 34 miles (54 km) away from their nesting sites. 

When crocs come together for mating season, there are some obvious changes to the typically solitary social structure. Males become very aggressive and will engage in displays and fights with other males to compete for a mate.

Once they have hatched, young crocodiles don’t rely on mom and dad for long, dispersing and leading their own solitary lives until it’s time to breed. However, it can take a long time before crocodiles reach sexual maturity with the males of some species not being ready to breed until around 17 years of age.

Communication

Crocodiles are considered to be the most vocal reptiles but the way that they communicate largely depends on where they are. For example, the type of sounds they use and the intensity varies depending on whether they’re in the water or on land.

Vocalizations can include bellowing, growling, hissing, and grunting but researchers recently rigged up croc territory and picked up booming sounds that resembled underwater drumming. As things stand, they’re not quite sure what these sounds mean or even if they were definitely made by crocodiles.

What we do know is that crocs use their vocal abilities for many things including communicating with potential mates, defending their territory, and even communicating with their young.

During mating season, males will make deep-blowing sounds to attract a female and assert their dominance. What’s more, they’ll also use chemical cues that involve the release of pheromones to signal that they’re ready to mate. These same cues can also let other crocs know whose territory is whose.

While intraspecific communication between crocs of the same species comes in handy for defending territory, it’s also useful when it comes to communal nesting. It allows the females to establish some sort of structure within the area and prevents conflict.

After the young have hatched, parents and their offspring are able to communicate vocally and acoustically. This usually involves the young making distress calls which they’re even able to do whilst still inside their eggs! When getting the young into the water, mother crocodiles will use a series of vocalizations to guide them and keep them safe.

Aside from vocal cues, crocodiles use their bodies to communicate in some rather impressive visual displays. Again, this is done for a variety of reasons but is very prominent during breeding season when males will slap their tails onto the surface of the water and lift themselves up in an attempt to attract female attention and warn off other males.

These amazing creatures will also use vibrational communications which are beneficial in the water especially when it comes to detecting the movement of prey.

Hunting

Crocodiles are apex predators meaning they play a crucial role in population control of prey species. They’re ambush predators, lying in wait, either at the edge of the water or submerged in it, for unsuspecting prey to pass by. Once it does, the crocodile will make a rapid dash, grabbing the prey in its powerful jaws and often performing a death roll. However, there are times when they will slowly move across the land before making a final speedy dash towards their victim.

The lunge and grab hunting technique sees the crocodile quickly moving towards its prey and swiftly grabbing it. The powerful jaws allow the animal to drag their prey into the water where they’ll feast on it.

Sometimes, crocs may have to wait for many hours for prey to pass by but this patient form of hunting allows them to conserve enough energy for when they need to strike. Their typical prey can range from fish to mammals and birds. Some species will even take down ungulates like zebras. It is this versatile diet that has allowed them to thrive in many different environments. Adaptations like sharp teeth and strong jaws are perfectly in line with the types of food they eat.

Normally, crocodiles will hunt at night as this adds an extra layer of concealment and ensures they remain as stealthy as possible. Consider that they already have camouflage coloration and are often submerged with just their eyes and nostrils on display, making them already very difficult to spot; perfect for water ambushes.

There are some species of crocodilian that will stalk their prey, although this is less common. They still need to remain concealed and may hide in vegetation, slowly emerging and pouncing on their unsuspecting victim.

Amazingly, it has recently been observed that some crocs may use a lure to attract prey. This was noted during nesting season when two females were seen using a stick (part of their nesting material) to attract birds.

When a crocodile isn’t quite ready to finish a meal, nothing goes to waste. These animals are known to cache their catches by hiding it under the mud or branches in the water. This way they can return to their meal later on without the risk of scavengers taking advantage.

While crocodilians are usually solitary creatures, they are known to sometimes hunt in groups. Feeding frenzies may take place at feeding grounds with multiple individuals competing for the best prey. However, this usually only happens where prey populations are much greater. They may even work together to obtain a catch.

Thermoregulation

Like most reptiles, crocodilians are ectothermic. This means that they cannot regulate their own body temperature but rather rely on external heat sources, primarily the sun, to keep them warm. It is essential to maintain an optimal temperature otherwise their metabolic rate will suffer.

This is why you’ll often see crocodiles basking in the sun to absorb its heat. They’ll typically do this on the banks of the river or on rocky surfaces. You may also notice that their mouths tend to be open while basking and this is for maximum skin exposure. The reason that crocodiles have dark coloration is that darker colors absorb more heat. Although there are examples of albino crocs, it’s estimated that they’re as rare as one in 30 million.

However, this isn’t the only way that these animals regulate their body temperature. When they need to cool down, they’ll spend time in the water. Moving between the water and onto the land ensures proper temperature regulation. When on land, they’re still able to cool down by entering a burrow, which they’ll do in extreme heat. On the other hand, crocodiles that live in cooler climates may spend much more time basking.

Crocodiles appear to know the importance of temperature regulation and this influences their choice of habitat. They’re known to choose microhabitats depending on the conditions. For example, they may choose a sunny spot when it’s cool but move into the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

This also applies when females are choosing a nesting spot. She will select a location based on the temperature which is especially important as this influences the gender of her offspring.

Earlier in this article, I mentioned countercurrent heat exchange. This involves veins running alongside one another, one containing warm blood while the other contains cool blood. The benefit of this is that heat can be conserved in cool environments but released when the climate is warmer.

Since crocodiles perform most of their hunting activities at night, they still need to be able to regulate their temperature. They’ll typically do this by choosing warmer areas so they can stay at an optimal temperature even after the sun has gone down.

Crocodile Tears

Have you ever heard someone say that a person is crying crocodile tears? It’s a phrase that means an individual may have physical tears coming down their cheeks, but there’s no actual emotion behind it. In the case of the crocodile, this couldn’t be more fitting, and these animals inspired the use of this phrase.

It’s true that you may see a crocodile crying but they’re certainly not feeling upset over anything. This is a special adaptation of their lacrimal glands that has evolved to allow them to live in different environments.

Where conditions are dry, these tears ensure that the eyes remain moist and are a common trait of crocs that primarily live on the land. When basking, this consistent moisture in the eyes allows prolonged basking time without the risk of dryness. What’s more, these tears flush the eyes of any debris, ensuring constant good vision. Dry eyes don’t function as well and this could affect the crocodile’s ability to survive.

As I discussed earlier, crocodiles are able to excrete excess salt from their bodies and their tears are one of the ways they do this. This means that the composition of the tears is very salty but they also contain a number of proteins. How often crocodiles cry really depends on the environmental conditions but it’s a biological process that happens regularly.

While you may hear myths that crocodiles cry when eating their prey as part of some emotional ritual, this is simply not the case. That said, crocodilians have been observed with tears in their eyes during feeding but scientists put this down to air moving through the sinuses and creating tears.

True Crocodiles (Crocodylidae family)

True crocodiles can be found in a range of environments all over the world, including bodies of both fresh and saltwater. While they are typically among the largest crocodilians, their size can vary between species.

These crocodiles are also among some of the most aggressive and territorial of all crocodilians but they’re still very caring parents with mothers building mound nests to protect their eggs.

Their global distribution is attributed to the fact that they’re able to tolerate a far broader range of temperatures than other crocodilians.

When trying to tell true crocodiles apart from other members of the crocodilian order, the snout is a key giveaway as it has more of a v shape, and the teeth are always visible when the mouth is closed. The snout, and entire head, are usually much longer, and these animals have incredibly powerful jaws. Unlike alligators, the dermal shields are much more prominent.

1. American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus)

As its name suggests, the American crocodile is found across the Americas with a range that stretches from Florida down to South America. It prefers coastal habitats and brackish waters but some individuals may be found in freshwater habitats.

Since alligators are also common in the Americas, some people may struggle to differentiate between these and the American crocodile. However, the American crocodile can be distinguished by its v-shaped snout and salt glands. These traits, among others, make them more closely related to the saltwater and Nile crocodiles than the American alligator.

American crocodiles grow to around 16.4 feet (5 meters) at adulthood and feed on a diet of small mammals, birds, fish, and crustaceans although they’ll sometimes go after larger prey, like deer. Their opportunistic behavior means they’re not all that fussy when it comes to food. They’re also fantastic hunters owing to their ability to blend in with their camouflage coloration and are adept swimmers with powerful muscles in the tail. So good are their swimming abilities that it has been recorded for individuals to take long journeys out into the open ocean.

Unfortunately, the American crocodile is under threat although it still has a status of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Threats include habitat loss as a result of development along the coast as well as rising sea levels which limit available nesting space. However, in known nesting areas, conservationists are making efforts to preserve the habitat as well as recovery plans to protect this species.

2. Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)

The Nile crocodile is perhaps one of the most well-known species of true crocodile and is certainly one of the largest, with adults reaching a length of up to 20 feet (6.1 meters). Like other croc species, the Nile crocodile preys on a variety of animals, including mammals, fish, birds, and reptiles, using the infamous ambush style of hunting. They’ve even been known to seek out infant primates by listening to their cries.

Found across sub-Saharan Africa, this species inhabits fresh, brackish, and saltwater environments, although they’re most commonly associated with the Nile River. They’re very common here and, as such, are listed as being of Least Concern in terms of conservation status. That said, they do face possible threats of habitat loss as a result of human development, as well as issues with human conflict and illegal hunting.

That said, this species is protected by law, making hunting them illegal in most places. What’s more, there are conservation efforts in place to ensure adequate nesting grounds for the Nile crocodile. During the breeding season, large numbers of Nile crocodiles gather for mating rituals and nesting. Males can be seen performing courtship displays involving lifting their bodies off the ground and making loud vocalizations. Owing to their territorial nature, this species is known to be aggressive, and it’s not uncommon for them to attack humans. Still, it’s important to try and mitigate this conflict for the good of both humans and crocodiles.

With a super powerful tail and streamlined body, the Nile crocodile is a brilliant swimmer. Salt water glands in their eyes allow them to live in a range of habitats without their salt levels becoming excessively high.

3. Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

If there’s one thing that the saltwater crocodile is known for, it’s the powerful bite force. One of the strongest bite forces on the planet allows these enormous animals to catch and consume prey effortlessly. However, this also makes them very dangerous to humans, especially considering how aggressive they are. But it’s still important to realize the ecological importance of this species and find ways for them to exist harmoniously alongside humans. 

If we don’t, this and other threats like habitat loss could result in them losing their IUCN Red List status of Least Concern. Another issue for this species is hunting although there are laws in place to prevent illegal hunting.

While their name may suggest that saltwater crocs are only found in coastal habitats, they are known for excellent adaptability and can also be found in swamps, rivers, and estuaries. That said, they’re also known to take on epic ocean migrations, traveling hundreds of miles away from their home. With a gland on their tongues, this species is easily able to get rid of excess salt.

Typically found in Australia and Southeast Asia, the saltwater crocodile prefers a warmer climate where it can hunt for fish, birds, and mammals. Out in the ocean, they’ve even been known to prey on sharks! This protein-packed diet means that they often grow in excess of 23 feet (7 meters). What’s more, their excellent vision enables them to hunt very effectively and they’re even known to sleep with one eye open so as to spot prey when they’re resting.

4. Orinoco Crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius)

Found only in the Orinoco River, its tributaries, and swamps that run through Columbia and Venezuela, the Orinoco crocodile is perhaps one of the lesser-known species. It is also one of the most threatened and has a Critically Endangered status, with just several hundred individuals left in the wild. Overhunting, habitat loss, and pollution are all to blame for this, although there are efforts in place to restore habitat in the Orinoco Basin. 

While numbers are dangerously low, it is thought that captive breeding and release programs could be the difference between the demise and survival of this species.

Orinoco crocodiles are slightly smaller and typically grow no larger than 13 feet (4 meters). Compared to other true crocodiles, their bodies are much narrower and they have a slightly broader snout.

These crocodiles are well adapted for life both in and out of the water and will hunt for both aquatic and terrestrial prey including mammals, fish, and amphibians. Although in some instances, they may go for larger victims including capybaras.

Like many crocodile species, female Orinocos are well known for their excellent parenting. They’ll guard their nest vigilantly and provide assistance to their young once they are hatched, ensuring they make it safely into the water.

5. Morelet’s Crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii)

Another medium-sized crocodile is the Morelet’s crocodile which is found in parts of Central America including Belize, Honduras, and Mexico. This species is largely found in freshwater, particularly in marshes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. However, being such an adaptable species, they are sometimes seen in coastal habitats as well.

The dark coloration and banding distinguish the Morelet’s crocodile from other species, and adults usually grow no bigger than 13 feet (4 meters) in length, with females being slightly smaller. Like many crocodiles, their streamlined bodies are designed to aid movement in the water, and this is complemented by webbed feet.

While their range isn’t as broad as some crocodile species, the Morelet’s crocodile isn’t in any danger and is listed as being of Least Concern. That said, they do face certain threats including illegal hunting, pollution, and a loss of habitat as a result of human activity. However, conservationists are keen to protect the species, and protection is offered to key nesting sites. In studies, it was noted that there are around five males for every female in populations in Belize. But this is far from being the first study on these animals. In fact, their very name comes from the naturalist who started studying them back in the 1800s, Pierre Marie Arthur Morelet.

6. Cuban Crocodile (Crocodylus rhombifer)

As you can tell from their name, Cuban crocodiles are only found on the large Caribbean island of Cuba where they inhabit a wide range of freshwater habitats like rivers, mangroves, and swamps. They are also sometimes found in the brackish waters of estuaries and spend time hunting crustaceans, fish, insects, and small mammals.

While their populations were once healthy, their range in Cuba has dwindled and they’re now mainly found along the Zapata Peninsula. As a result of this, the species is now listed as being Critically Endangered and this has largely come as a result of habitat loss as well as other factors such as hybridization with American crocodiles and illegal hunting.

With numbers continuing to decline, conservationists are working hard to restore populations. There have been examples of individuals being released back into the wild after being rescued from illegal hunters and the Cuban government has placed protective measures on parts of their habitat.

While this is a smaller species with adults growing to around 9.8 feet (3 meters), it’s still well known for its aggression, particularly when breeding. At this time, males will put on elaborate courtship rituals which include head-slapping, vocalizations, and splashing in the water. That said, out of all the true crocodile species, the Cuban croc is known to spend more time on land than any other.

7. West African Crocodile (Crocodylus suchus)

Growing to around 9.8 feet (3 meters), the West African crocodile is a robust animal with a broad snout and excellent eyesight which it uses when hunting prey such as reptiles, small mammals, and fish. This species is perfectly adapted for life in and out of the water with powerful limbs and a strong flexible tail.

West African crocodiles are found in countries that include Gambia, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Senegal and in terms of appearance, are much smoother than some of their other croc cousins. They prefer freshwater habitats and are often found in marshes, rivers, and swamps but can sometimes be found in brackish waters thanks to their adaptability to different habitats.

The West African crocodile faces several threats, including habitat loss, hunting, and human conflict, which could eventually lead to a decrease in their population. However, as things stand, they are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. That said, protective measures for their habitat are still in place, and conservationists are looking at ways to reduce human/crocodile conflict through education.

It’s important that this species isn’t allowed to decline in number as they’re imperative to the prey population control in their local ecosystems.

8. Philippine Crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis)

Found in the Philippines, this species is one of the smaller true crocodiles with adults only growing to 9.8 feet (3 meters) max in length. They also differ from other members of the true crocodile family because of the bonier skull, which makes them easy to distinguish.

Philippine crocodiles prefer a freshwater habitat which may include marshes, lakes, and rivers. However, because of recent declines in their populations, they are now found in isolated pockets. This is a result of things like human conflict, illegal hunting, and habitat loss which has meant they have now been listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

While there are captive breeding programs going on with crocodiles being released back into the wild, scientists have noticed that these captive-bred individuals are exhibiting different behaviors to those that were born in the wild. Still, this provides us with a chance to better study these animals and learn more about their needs.

Considered to be one of the rarest species of true crocodile on the planet, the Philippine crocodile was once thought to be extinct. However, the restoration of habitat for this species, after small populations were rediscovered, does seem to be having a positive impact on their numbers.

9. Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)

Far more tolerant of cooler climates than other true crocodiles, the mugger croc can often be seen basking in the sun in countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka where its populations are healthy, putting it in the category of Least Concern.

That said, there may be threats to local populations including habitat loss, human conflict, and hunting, particularly for the pet trade. But conservationists are already taking action to educate locals and prevent retaliatory killings as well as working on protecting the mugger crocodile’s existing habitat which includes bodies of freshwater like lakes, rivers, and ponds. Although thanks to the salt gland on their tongues, this species is able to survive in brackish waters. 

It was once thought that the mugger crocodile was regionally extinct in Bangladesh but small groups of individuals were since found. It is hoped that by establishing protected areas, there may still be a chance for them to thrive here again.

Females can be spotted along the riverbanks digging their nests. They’re specially adapted for this and dig burrows to protect their eggs and keep them insulated. While they are protective of their nests and territory, this is one of the least aggressive species of true crocodile.

Feeding on a diet of fish, reptiles, and amphibians, the mugger crocodile can grow up to 13 feet (4 meters) in length, with females being slightly smaller than males. Unlike some crocodiles, the skin of the mugger is much smoother with less jagged ridges.

10. New Guinea Crocodile (Crocodylus novaeguineae)

Common throughout New Guinea and its neighboring islands, the New Guinea crocodile is listed as being of Least Concern. This medium-sized species grows to around 9.8 feet (3 meters) in length and feeds on a diet of fish, amphibians, and reptiles which it catches with no problems thanks to its strong legs and tail that help it move on land and in the water.

With a broad snout and smooth skin, the New Guinea crocodile has a relatively unique appearance. They’re primarily found in freshwater habitats but some individuals may live in brackish waters and have a salt gland that allows for survival in these areas.

While the New Guinea crocodile isn’t under any current threat of extinction, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t face certain problems. Most notably, human development for things like agriculture and urbanization means that there is a risk of habitat loss. Moreover, this species is often hunted both for the pet trade and for its body parts and skin.

There are several conservation efforts in place to protect the habitat of the New Guinea crocodile, and conservationists are keen to work together with local communities and provide education on the importance of the species, in hopes of preventing hunting. Throughout history, this species has had great significance in folklore, and sculptures of them were kept in men’s houses to bring luck in hunting expeditions and war. 

During courtship rituals, the New Guinea crocodile exhibits a range of interesting and unique vocalizations including grunts and growls.

Now, while I am talking about the New Guinea crocodile as one species, there have been studies that have shown morphological differences between those in the northern part of the range and those in the southern part. It is now suggested that they should be separately categorized.

11. Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis)

Growing to around 9.8 feet (3 meters) in length, the Siamese crocodile is easy to distinguish thanks to the banded and spotted pattern on its back and tail. They’re found in freshwater habitats in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. While they prefer slow-moving bodies of water, their special adaptations allow them to live in a range of environments. 

However, they do prefer areas with a lot of vegetation as this is where the females are more likely to lay their eggs. Whether in the water or on land, the Siamese crocodile is an adept hunter with powerful limbs that allow it to catch fish, small mammals, and amphibians.

When hunting, they use an ambush technique like other crocodiles and their dark coloration enables them to remain concealed and stealthy. They typically hunt at night and have great eyesight which makes them super effective hunters.

Known for their cultural significance in their native countries, Siamese crocodiles are now sadly Critically Endangered which is a result of habitat loss as well as hunting since they are prized for their skin. Hybridization is also an issue but there are not many pure unhybridized individuals left. While human conflict may be an issue, reports have shown that pure Siamese crocodiles show very little aggression towards humans. Still, they may be heard making a variety of vocalizations to defend their territory including distinct hisses.

The species was once thought to be extinct but back in 2000, small populations were rediscovered. Still, after being driven out of up to 99% of its range, it’s thought that there are no more than 1000 individuals left in the wild.

12. Dwarf Crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis)

Found throughout Western and Central Africa, the dwarf crocodile is the smallest species and only grows to around 6.6 feet (2 meters) in length, and that only applies to the biggest individuals. Being opportunists, dwarf crocodiles aren’t too fussy about what they eat. While they mainly prey on fish, amphibians, and small mammals, they won’t think twice about going for small reptiles and crustaceans where they can.

Typically found in slow-moving or still freshwater habitats, the dwarf crocodile lives in both temporary and permanent waters. This includes flooded forests even where the water levels are relatively low. Thanks to their streamlined bodies and strong limbs, they’re well adapted for life among the trees. You might even see them climbing in the trees which is useful when they need to escape predation.

When hunting, their shape allows them to move without being detected and their dark coloration helps them to blend into the water. They have a special valve in their throats that allows them to remain under the water for a prolonged period of time which is also super helpful when waiting to ambush prey.

Just like other croc species, the dwarf crocodile uses a range of vocalizations for communication. But what’s unique about it is that scientists have recently discovered it has a call all of its own that sounds not too dissimilar to a cow!

At the moment, the dwarf crocodile faces a number of potential threats such as hunting, habitat loss, and human conflict. However, this hasn’t drastically affected their population and they’re still considered to be of Least Concern. With that in mind, conservationists are still taking precautionary measures to monitor and protect this species.

13. Freshwater Crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni)

The freshwater crocodile is found in northern parts of Australia and is a medium-sized species that grows to no more than 9.8 feet (3 meters). The males are usually bigger than the females, but this is the only example of sexual dimorphism in the species. 

As the name suggests, this species inhabits bodies of freshwater such as swamps, billabongs, and rivers but they do prefer slow-moving waters. That said, this species is equipped with a salt gland on the tongue so it can tolerate living in brackish waters.

You’ll often see them basking on the banks of the river and they can be distinguished by their smooth skin with some bony ridges. They have a slightly slenderer snout than other true crocodiles and they use this to help them catch fish which forms the main part of their diet.

Freshwater crocs are listed as being of Least Concern and face very few problems in terms of conflict with humans because of their much more docile nature. However, in areas where humans and freshwater crocodiles have to co-exist, some problems may occur but the main threat to this species is habitat loss.

14. West African Slender-Snouted Crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus)

I’m going to talk about the West African slender-snouted crocodile but it’s important to keep in mind that this name actually refers to two species. This is in relation to where each species is found with western and central African individuals now being split into two categories.

The West African slender-snouted crocodile is so named because of its slender snout which they use for hunting and that makes them easy to tell apart from other species. They grow to around 9.8 feet (3 meters) in length and can be found in countries such as Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, and Guinea. They prefer a freshwater habitat with lots of vegetation which they use when hunting and nesting, although the females will commonly build a mound nest.

Owing to how much time this species spends hidden among the foliage, they’re very hard to spot and this elusive behavior makes them harder to study. We know that they primarily feed on fish but will adjust their diet according to what’s available including amphibians and crustaceans as well as small mammals.

Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, the West African slender-snouted crocodile faces threats that include habitat loss, hunting, and human conflict. However, there are conservation efforts in place to protect and restore their habitat as well as captive breeding programs designed to improve the genetic diversity of their populations.

15. Hall’s New Guinea Crocodile (Crocodylus halli)

Hall’s New Guinea crocodile is found only in the southern parts of the island of New Guinea where it inhabits lakes and rivers but may also sometimes be found in estuaries. A relatively newly discovered species of crocodile, Hall’s New Guinea crocodile is actually very closely related to the New Guinea crocodile.

However, the species was recently split after scientists noticed some obvious differences in the skull of this new species. The snout of Hall’s is much shorter and wider than that of the New Guinea crocodile and they’re found in two separate locations on the island; this species in the south and the other in the north.

What’s more, while the New Guinea crocodile nests during the dry season, this second species actually nests during the rainy season. Interestingly, there are three individuals in captivity in Florida that were initially thought to be New Guinea crocodiles but, as it turns out, they’re actually Hall’s.

However, this wasn’t a discovery that was easy to come by. Philip Hall, who the species is named after, actually started his research back in the 1980s and it took 40 years before any concrete differentiation was made.

16. Central African Slender-Snouted Crocodile (Mecistops leptorhynchus)

Another crocodile species that has been split from its former family is the Central African slender-snouted crocodile. Once thought to be the same as the Western variety, it was discovered that there are key differences that separate the two. As such, they were placed into two different species.

This only happened in 2016, so is still quite a recent discovery and involves genetic changes that have been happening over 8 million years. After having studied the two species for more than 12 years, researchers have confirmed that their genetics are not the same.

Covering a range between Cameroon and Tanzania, the Central African slender-snouted crocodile is a shy species with a distinct narrow snout that is found in bodies of freshwater. However, sadly, populations are in dramatic decline and as such, the species is considered to be critically endangered.

That long, narrow snout is a perfect adaptation for life in the water and enables this species to effectively hunt for fish. Although it isn’t a fussy eater and is also known to consume small mammals, amphibians, and other creatures as availability dictates.

Alligators & Caimans (Alligatoridae family)

The Alligatoridae family is made up of alligators and caimans which largely live in the Americas and China in freshwater habitats. Just like true crocodiles, they build mound nests but may also use natural cavities to lay their eggs.

Not as aggressive as true crocodiles, alligators are still territorial. Plus, they’re usually much smaller than true crocodiles although the largest species, the black caiman can grow up to 13 feet (4 meters) in length.

While crocodiles have salt glands, alligators and caimans do not as they don’t tend to live in saltwater environments. Their snout has more of a u shape and their heads are much more rounded and broader than that of a true crocodile. The eyes are in a similar position on the top of the head as a true croc but the nostrils are set much further back.

1. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

The American alligator is one of the largest species of alligator and adults can grow up to 15 feet (4.6 meters) although the females tend to be slightly smaller. They have a rounded snout and lots of body armor to protect them as well as a dark coloration that’s perfect for camouflage when they’re hunting for mammals, birds, and fish; they’re not very fussy eaters and may even feast on carrion.

Found in the southeastern portion of the USA, American alligators prefer a slightly warmer climate and are happy to live in brackish waters, although they typically prefer rivers, lakes, and swamps.

The American alligator is perfectly adapted for life in the water and has strong legs and a robust tail that allows it to move smoothly and quickly. They also have webbed feet which aid in swimming but are super efficient when it comes to digging a nest.

Populations of American alligators are incredibly healthy and numbers have risen in recent years thanks to conservation efforts to restore their habitats. They are now listed as being of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Still, that doesn’t mean we should take their presence for granted as habitat loss is still a problem and, in some cases, human conflict can result in the killing of these beautiful creatures.

Listen carefully between April and June, during breeding season and you might hear a bellowing sound which is the male alligator trying to attract the attention of a mate. After laying her eggs, the female needs to perfectly incubate them as their temperature will determine which gender hatches.

When the weather turns cooler, American alligators enter a period of brumation. This is common among reptiles and involves the animal becoming dormant to conserve energy.

2. Chinese Alligator (Alligator sinensis)

The Chinese alligator is often confused with the American alligator as they do have very similar appearances. However, this species is much smaller and, as its name suggests, is found in China as opposed to America.

Sometimes called the Yangtze alligator, this species is primarily concentrated in northeastern parts of the country and its decrease in numbers has resulted in it being listed as Endangered. As such, restrictions have been placed on its trade. What’s more, because agriculture has taken over the land, the species has experienced significant habitat loss.

Chinese alligators use a range of vocalizations to communicate, especially during breeding season. They have a lifespan of up to 70 years and are able to continue breeding well into their fifties. Being a smaller species, their diet is typically restricted to fish and crustaceans but there is some evidence that they may consume slightly larger prey when it is available. 

3. Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus)

The spectacled caiman is a smaller alligator species that grows to around 6.6 feet (2 meters). This species takes its name from the fact that it has bony ridges around the eyes which make it look as though it’s wearing spectacles. These bony plates can also be seen running along the back of the alligator and serve as a form of protection.

Thriving in a freshwater habitat, the spectacled caiman can be found throughout Central and South America in lakes, swamps, and rivers. However, from time to time, individuals may be found in brackish and coastal waters. In any case, their powerful legs and tail make them excellent swimmers.

Another interesting adaptation of the spectacled caiman is its snout which is packed with sensory organs that allow the animal to locate prey by detecting pressure changes in the water. Good luck to any fish, amphibians, or crustaceans passing by as this species lies in wait, submerged beneath the water. They’re also sometimes known to prey on small mammals when given the opportunity.

Due to factors like habitat loss, deforestation, overharvesting their skins, and conflict with humans, the spectacled caiman is considered to be Endangered but is listed as being of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. It is thought that there are around 1 million individuals remaining in the wild.

They have an uncanny ability to survive and may hide out in burrows during the dry season as a way to stay cool and moist. While they typically live for up to 35 years, some individuals may live twice this long.

4. Yacare Caiman (Caiman yacare)

The yacare caiman is a species that is native to South America, including countries such as Brazil,  Argentina, and Paraguay. They prefer a freshwater habitat and are often found around rivers and lakes where they will hunt for a vast array of prey such as fish, small mammals, and crustaceans.

Typically, yacare caimans will select habitat that has dense vegetation cover and places where they can burrow during hot, dry weather. Their strong limbs make them brilliant swimmers but they’re just as adept on the land thanks to their tail that enables excellent balance.

When hunting, the yacare caiman benefits from a sensory organ on the snout which allows it to detect changes in the water pressure. They are, like most other crocodilians, ambush hunters and will lie in wait with their eyes and nostrils above the water until prey passes by.

This species is well known for its range of vocal abilities which are often used during the breeding season. While not a lot is known about their mating behavior, it is thought that females are able to store sperm until they need to use it.

With the threat of habitat loss, overharvesting, and human conflict, one might be led to believe that the yacare caiman would be endangered. However, as things stand, this species is listed as being of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

5. Broad-Snouted Caiman (Caiman latirostris)

The broad-snouted caiman is a medium-sized species that is found in South America and that grows to between 6.6 and 9.8 feet (2 and 3 meters) in length. This species prefers a freshwater habitat in countries like Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina. Like our previous reptilian friend, the broad-snouted caiman likes a habitat with lots of vegetation in which to conceal itself.

As well as its broad snout, this species can be identified by the bony scutes that run along the back and around the skull. They have incredibly powerful legs and a strong tail which enable them to move efficiently both on land and in the water. Their jaws are equipped with sharp teeth which they use to catch prey including small invertebrates, turtles, and snails.

When hunting, they use a sensory organ on the snout to detect movement and changes in pressure in the water. This means they are able to efficiently hunt in low light conditions. As such, they do most of their hunting at dusk and dawn, making them a crepuscular species.

Being a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, you might think that the broad-snouted caiman didn’t face any threats. But there are still things like habitat loss and human conflict as well as overharvesting for their skin that could cause issues in the future.

6. Black Caiman (Melanosuchus niger)

One of the largest alligator species, the black caiman can grow up to 16.4 feet (5 meters) in length. They have a dark coloration between olive and black, which is how they earned their name. They’re also one of the most well-loved of all alligator species and, as such, indigenous conservationists are honing in on monitoring and protecting this species. 

But while they are afforded special protection, that isn’t to say that factors like habitat loss and human conflict aren’t a problem. Still, at the moment, populations are healthy so the black caiman is listed as being of Least Concern.

Found in South America across Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and other nations, the black caiman is a freshwater species that favors slow-moving waters. They’ll also inhabit temporary waters like floods where necessary and will hunt for a variety of amphibians, fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals proving their versatile diet and ability to adapt to different environments.

This species can often be found hiding out in dense vegetation or waiting in the water with their eyes and nostrils poking out, waiting for prey to pass by. Like other caimans, sensory organs on the snout aid in prey detection in the water. However, the black caiman is not often spotted by humans and is pretty shy.

7. Smooth-Fronted Caiman (Paleosuchus trigonatus)

Our last member of the Alligatoridae family is the smooth-fronted caiman which is native to South America. This is a small species that doesn’t grow to much more than 6.6 feet (2 meters) and while it does have bony plates, its skin is much smoother than some other species. Although, don’t expect to easily spot one of these caimans as they are known for their elusive nature.

Found in freshwater bodies such as swamps, rivers, and lakes, the smooth-fronted caiman preys on aquatic creatures like fish, amphibians, and crustaceans although it’s not unheard of for it to feed on small mammals where they are available.

These creatures are perfectly adapted for life in the water with a strong tail and legs that aid in propulsion and movement. Like other caimans, they have sensory organs on their noses that detect changes in the water when they are looking for prey.

With healthy populations, the smooth-fronted caiman is listed as being of Least Concern although it isn’t known how many individuals are currently in the wild. They may face threats in the future because of habitat loss as a result of human activity and since they are harvested for their skin, there is a risk that this could get out of control and start affecting their numbers.

Gharials (Gavialidae family)

Gharials are the smallest family of crocodilians, and they typically live in the rivers and freshwater habitats of South Asia. They’re much smaller than other types of crocodilian and prefer warmer climates, hence their more compact distribution.

Unlike other crocodilian species, not all gharials have sensory organs and they don’t usually build mound nests but favor nests constructed on sand banks.

Compared to true crocodiles, they have a much less aggressive temperament and are generally considered to be docile creatures.

In terms of appearance, the gharial is not only smaller than a true croc but also has a much longer and narrower head and snout. Since they mainly feed on fish, their jaws are not as powerful but they’re still equipped with up to 110 teeth.

1. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)

The gharial is a much less aggressive cousin of the crocodile and is found in South Asia where it prefers a river habitat with slow-moving waters and sandy banks where it will construct its nest. Females dig the nest but the males are known to help protect the eggs. They can also be found in deep pools and tributaries.

Smaller than other types of crocodilian, the gharial may grow between 14.8 and 19.7 feet (4.5 and 6 meters) once it reaches adulthood, although it’s the males that tend to be bigger. What’s more, the males usually have a longer snout with a more prominent tip, which they use during their courtship rituals.

The long snout of the gharial is thought to make them more streamlined when moving through the water. Inside the jaws, there are thin, needle-like teeth that are perfect for catching prey. Typically they’ll feed on fish so they don’t need the bone-crushing power that crocodiles have in their teeth and jaws. However, they do have a very unique adaptation in the form of their special palate which allows their teeth to mesh when the mouth is closed, meaning it’s much easier to hold onto slippery prey.

Sadly, the gharial is critically endangered, and it’s thought that there could be fewer than 900 individuals in the wild and as few as 200 in Nepal. Known as the most threatened crocodilian in the world, the gharial faces habitat loss and degradation as well as many individuals being caught in fishing nets. Water pollution is also a significant problem and not only affects the gharials but is also decreasing prey populations, making it more difficult for them to find food. That said, in parts of India, there has been a promising spike in the population of gharials thanks to the release of captive-bred individuals by conservation trusts. 

2. False Gharial (Tomistoma schlegelii)

The false gharial is another threatened species although their numbers are slightly higher with around 2400 individuals estimated to be in the wild, giving them an endangered rating. As well as similar problems to the gharial in terms of habitat destruction, this species is also hunted for its skin and often comes into conflict with humans.

Slightly smaller than the gharial, this species typically grows up to 16.4 feet (5 meters) in length and is found in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. They also prefer freshwater habitats and can be found in rivers, lakes, and swamps.

Like the gharial, false gharials feed primarily on a diet of fish but they’re also known to prey on small mammals and reptiles as well as amphibians. Their specialized teeth allow them to grip their prey and they’ll lie in wait under the water to ambush prey as it passes by with just the eyes and nostrils above the surface.

The false gharial has a very streamlined snout and body which allows it to move quickly through the water. However, they do have a bulbous growth on the end of the snout called a ghara which is used to protect the nostrils as well as for enhancing vocalizations, particularly during mating.

But as fascinating as the false gharial is, these elusive animals have proven quite difficult to study in the wild, so there’s probably a lot more we can learn about their behavior.