See the Saltwater Crocodiles

See the Saltwater Crocodiles of Darwin

The tropical climate of the Northern Territory makes Darwin the perfect backdrop for the resident saltwater crocodiles.

Salt Water Crocodile

In fact, this part of Australia is home to more crocodiles than anywhere else in the world, so it’s well worth a visit if you want to learn more about these magnificent, prehistoric creatures.

The Saltwater Crocodile

Salties, as they are locally known, are the largest species of reptile in the world and have sat at the very top of the food chain for over 100 million years. They can grow to an impressive seven metres long and can easily weigh more than 1,000 kg, though the average size of a fully-grown male in the Northern Territory is around five metres long.

There are around 200,000 saltwater crocodiles in Australia, with the vast majority of them calling the Top End and Darwin home.

Where to See the Saltwater Crocodiles of Darwin

There are plenty of places to spot crocs throughout Darwin and its surrounds. Here are some of the best.

  • 1. Crocosaurus Cove

    Crocosaurus Cove

    Actually located in Darwin, Crocosaurus Cove is dedicated to the magnificent saltwater crocodile and is home to the largest display of Australia reptiles in the world.

    • Swim with the Crocs

      No, you aren’t misinterpreting that title! You can actually swim with the crocodiles. From the safety of the secure glass enclosure tube, you can slow submerge into the crocodile’s enclosures. See the crocs swim past you with an only clear glass wall dividing you. This activity is sure to give even the bravest visitor a scare.

    • Fish for the Crocs

      Grab a fishing rod and head to the fishing platform provided. Here you’ll be surrounded by a swarm of hungry teenage crocodiles, with only a platform’s fence dividing you. Simply swing your rod at and wait for one a bit! As the crocs launch grabbing treat after treat for their lunch.

    • See the Baby Crocs

      If the bigger ones make you nervous, simply stop off for a visit to the baby crocs! This time is the opportunity where you can actually hold them in your hands, as they soon grow into some of the most dangerous creatures on the planet.

    • The Reptile House

      Discover the other creatures to the tropics in the reptile house! There are over 70 different species roaming about, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. There are demonstration showings three times a day, so make sure you visit to catch one of these professional displays.

  • 2. Crocodylus Park

    Set just outside of Darwin’s city centre, Crocodylus Park is home to more than 10,000 crocodiles. As well as seeing these creatures up close, you can also browse the on-site museum that boasts numerous displays where you can learn all about the behaviour, habitat, and lifestyle of these creatures.

    Come along for the journey to see the largest reptiles on the planet! With three showings every day, you can hop on the Croc Boat cruise as well as seeing the other creatures in the animal display scattered about.

  • 3. Territory Wildlife Park

    You can find this attraction around an hour outside of Darwin. Whilst there, you can wander around the displays that feature wildlife and ecology from the Top End, including creatures found in different habitats, from the escarpment zones right through to the lush mangroves that flank the coast.

    • Billabong

      The Billabong is where all the animals come together. A collection of native animals and lush plant life. See the birds, reptiles, and mammals all frocking about the waters and edges.

    • Aquarium

      This experience lets you see these marine animals both in and out of the water! with only clear glass dividing you from the dark water, you can spot platypus’, fish, and even crocodiles roaming the bottom of the billabong floor.

    • Monsoon Forest Walk

      This raised boardwalk winds through the Top End habitat, ducking through the thick greenery and arching over the trickling creeks. Here you can see animals such as turtles, snakes, reptiles, and birds all frolicking about in their natural habitat.

    • Nocturnal House

      Discover the secrets of natural nightlife! This wildlife park is home to some of Australia’s most beloved nocturnal animals, opening its doors after sunsets to view these creatures slowly waking up. With geckos, sugar gliders, and rare rock wallabies are just some of the animal’s features. Letting you a unique range of creatures that you wouldn’t be able to see anywhere else!

  • 4. Jumping Crocodile Tours

    Jumping Crocodile

    Set on the picturesque backdrop of the Adelaide River, the Jumping Crocodile Tours give you a chance to get to know these creatures in a unique and memorable way. You’ll travel along the river on a boat, spotting the local kings of the river, with the guides listing each croc’s name and their personality. As you voyage down, you can spot more than the crocs, seeing the native animals and plants that flood the area. After finding a croc swarmed spot, the guide will pull out a tasty treat, hanging it out on a long stick high above the air. This is where the jumping comes in, with the crocs leaping out of the water to grab their tasty treat, with the majority of their body emerging from the murky waters. It’s safe to say you won’t forget this exhilarating experience anytime soon.

Getting to know the saltwater crocodiles of the Northern Territory is a must-do if you’re in the area. At multiple different venues, you can see the creatures in their natural environment, learn more about their fascinating lifestyles, and get up close and personal unlike anywhere else in the world.

Related article: The Northern Territory

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