Everything you need to know about Australia’s Saltwater Crocodiles

The ancient scaly predator known as the Saltwater Crocodile is famous throughout the world for being Australia’s deadliest creature.

• Appearance

  They are listed as the largest reptile species in the entire world, sometimes growing up to 7 meters, and weighing a whopping 1000 kilograms. When first growing, their colour is a pale tan, with black stripes or spots lining the body and tail. As they come into adulthood, their strips/spots fade and they range in dark green, grey or tanned colours, with creamy yellow to white bellies. They are famous for their long-stretched heads which hold their heavy set of jaws equip with a deadly set of teeth.

• Habitat

  There are crocs roaming all over the tropics, dwelling in rivers, lakes, and all sorts of watering spots. The Adelaide River is swarming with a large population of these creatures. Being a hotspot for tourists and cruises to spot these majestic reptiles.

• Feeding Habits

  Saltwater crocodiles normally prey on small reptiles, fish, turtles, and even roaming birds. However, they are more than capable of eating bigger prey, capturing livestock, pigs, and huge buffaloes if the opportunity comes up.

• Breeding

  The breeding season is in the warmer months of November to March. The female Crocs lay 40 to 60 eggs in hidden nests nearby the water. Over 90 days, the eggs begin to develop, while the female guards her eggs. An amazing fact about these creatures is the gender of each egg depends on the temperature. If temperatures rise above 32 degrees Celsius the eggs will be male, whereas if it is colder, the eggs will hatch female. After they hatch, the mother uses her huge mouth to carry her babies to the water.

• Abilities

  Crocs have been on top of the food chain for over 100 million years, with their past ancestors roaming alongside the dinosaurs. Although humans are not in their regular diet, they are more than capable of grabbing people that wander too far into their territory. There are over hundreds of injuries and deaths, estimating that an average of 2 deaths a year is caused by these Australian creatures.

How to see them

Due to the danger of these beasts, it is best to go on a professional tour. Many injuries and deaths were due to tourists trekking out to see the Crocs alone, not knowing the proper procedure of seeing these creatures. Cruises let you see crocs up close and personal without having to worry about your safety. Otherwise, you should always follow the safety signs that litter the area, and never go swimming unless it is clearly marked safe by locals.

Related article: Feeding and Breeding Habits of Australian Saltwater Crocodiles.