Nile Crocodile

: Nile Crocodile

Crocodylus niloticus [Scientific]
Crocodilo do Nilo [Portuguese]

Description

The Nile crocodile is Africa’s largest crocodile; it can grow up to six meters in length and weigh as much as 1650 kilograms. Some say that Gorongosa National Park boasts the largest Nile crocodiles in the world. Nile crocs date back almost 75 million years—they are more closely related to dinosaurs and birds than to other reptiles.

Adult Nile crocodiles eat mostly fish, but can capture antelopes, wildebeest, human beings, or whatever happens to cross their path. They can eat up to half their body weight at a feeding. Nile crocodiles can live 70-100 years.

Crocodiles can stay submerged for up to three hours. While under water, a protective membrane closes over their eyes, somewhat like goggles. Crocodiles are cold-blooded—they rely on the temperature of the sun and water to heat up or cool down. They can be sluggish when cool, but when warmed up, crocodiles can move at great speeds.

Nile crocodiles make very good parents. Unlike most reptiles, mother and father Nile crocs ferociously guard their nests; the mother will dig a hole in the water for her eggs and lay on the spot until they hatch. If a predator comes, they will often roll the eggs gently in their mouths to help hatching babies emerge or protect new young. Crocodiles remain in the same territory throughout their entire life, only moving if their homes dry up.

How to See

In Gorongosa National Park, Nile Crocodiles can be found in and along the Pungue River, other rivers, Lake Urema, and freshwater marshes. They can be seen living alone or in small groups of similar sized crocodiles.

When on a game drive, do not swim, approach river banks, or leave your vehicle. Always be on the lookout for crocodiles, as many local community members have lost their lives when washing or working alongside the river. Nile crocs may not easily be seen from your vehicle because they can stay submerged for long periods of time. They are known to burst out of the water onto land to capture their prey. If you see a Nile Crocodile on your trip, it is important to keep your distance.