Crocodiles

 Never enter water where crocodiles may live! Whereas humans are not their first choice of meal, crocs may be irritated and thus take humans for their natural prey. There are two types to beware of: the Saltwater Crocodile (Saltie) and the Freshwater Crocodile (Freshie). They are found in areas where water is.

The Saltie:

The saltwater crocodile grows up to 18 feet (5.45 meters) in length. It is known as one of the most dangerous crocodiles in the world.

They have been know to live far from the sea, be sure to check with local rangers before entering any body of water, and never swim alone! Its most powerful attack – the death roll – consists of grabbing its prey and rolling powerfully until it dies.

Saltwater crocodiles generally live (during the tropical wet season) in freshwater pools and rivers; during the dry season, they move downstream to estuaries and sometimes spend this time out to sea. So don’t assume you are safe in fresh water just because of the name “Saltwater crocodile”!

Because they are dispersed by the bigger ones, Junior crocodiles are forced into the more marginal river systems and sometimes into the ocean. This explains the large distribution of this dangerous animal.

The Freshie:

The Australian freshwater crocodile is a small cousin of the Australian saltwater crocodile. There reach lengths of 8-10 ft max (2.4-3 m) and weigh 40 lbs (90 kg). The mouth is lined with 68-72 sharp teeth. The fourth tooth on either side of the bottom jaw is larger than the others, and can be seen when the mouth is closed. Australian freshwater crocodiles are one of the few species that can gallop on land, reaching speeds of 18 km/h. They have a life span of 50 years. Australian freshwater crocodiles can be also found in saltwater.  Australian freshwater crocodile juveniles feed on insects, crustaceans, and small fish. They do not hunt on land but will wait at the water’s edge for prey, typically fish, to get close, and then will attack with a lightning-fast snap of the head. They also hunt underwater.