Nile Crocodile
Crocodylus niloticus
Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.
The Nile crocodile is a large African crocodilian that hunts in and around water. Young animals begin with smaller prey than adults.
At a glance
- Location
- Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, around lakes, rivers, swamps and river mouths.
- Habitat
- Rivers and lakes, Wetlands, Coast
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Food
- Fish, mammals and smaller aquatic animals.
Classification
- Common name
- Nile Crocodile
- Browse group
- Reptiles
- Scientific name or taxon
- Crocodylus niloticus
- Taxon rank
- species
- Family
- Crocodylidae
- Genus
- Crocodylus
- Source classification
- Reptilia
Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.
Three things to know
- Fish are part of the adult diet.
- Young crocodiles eat insects and crustaceans.
- Females protect nests and newly hatched young.
Habitat and range
Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, around lakes, rivers, swamps and river mouths.
Appearance and adaptations
It is an aquatic reptile with a powerful tail and an armoured body. Adult males defend territories, while sounds help crocodiles communicate.
Diet and behaviour
Adults catch fish and terrestrial mammals. Young crocodiles eat insects, amphibians and crustaceans. Females guard nests and care for newly hatched young.
Sources
- Gdańsk Zoo: Nile crocodile
- A–Z Animals: Nile Crocodile · Directory entry
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