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Main Characteristics of Crocodiles

  • There are 26 species of crocodiles.
  • Most crocodiles can be found in Africa, South and Central America, Indonesia, and India.
  • The most well-known are the saltwater crocodile and the alligator.
  • From the side, alligators appear to be smiling.
  • Caimans and gavials are also part of the crocodile family.
  • Most crocodiles inhabit freshwater environments like lakes and rivers.
  • The saltwater crocodile can also thrive in saltwater.
  • As carnivores, they ambush their prey.
  • They possess an impressive bite force of over 16,000 Newtons, surpassed only by the great white shark at over 18,000 Newtons, while humans have a bite force of 80 Newtons.
  • Crocodiles, along with birds, are the only living relatives of the archosaurs.
  • The largest species is the saltwater crocodile, with the biggest recorded individual named 'Lolong,' measuring 20-2 feet (6.17 meters) and weighing 2,369 pounds (1,075 kg).
  • The smallest is the Cuvier's dwarf caiman, reaching a maximum length of 3.9-4.5 feet (1.2-1.4 meters) and weighing between 11-15.4 pounds (5-7 kg).
  • The oldest crocodile in the world is Henry, a Nile crocodile. He is at least 124 years old and resides at the Crocworld Conservation Center in South Africa.

Species List


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