The saltwater crocodile is nothing to be trifled with – this daunting reptile can grow up to a huge 6 meters in length, and weigh around a thousand kilograms.
Even the bulls elephant seals and walruses pale in comparison! Not only that, but salties are also particularly adaptable when it comes to their habitats; they may take shelter near the coast or rivers, swamps, and even billabongs and beaches too.
The saltwater crocodile range is as expansive as its size; found throughout Northern Australia, New Guinea, some areas of Southeast Asia, and beyond into these countries’ surrounding waters.
Who knows what secrets lurk beneath the murky jungles or sun-dappled beaches?
These magnificent creatures remind us that nature has wonders far beyond what we can fathom – so if you ever spot one (at a safe distance, of course!) take time to admire them from afar.
Quick Navigation
Australian Saltwater Crocodile Facts for Kids
- Largest living reptile on Earth.
- Can grow up to 23 feet long.
- Live in oceans, rivers, and swamps.
- Powerful swimmers and climbers.
- Carnivores: eat fish, mammals, and birds.
- Lay up to 60 eggs at a time.
- Known as “salties” in Australia.
- Saltwater crocodile is the largest living species of crocodile and reptile.
| Key Statistic | Saltwater Crocodile |
| Scientific Name | Crocodylus porosus |
| Size | Up to 23 feet (7 meters) |
| Weight | Up to 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg) |
| Lifespan | 70+ years |
| Top Speed | 15 mph (24 km/h) |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Habitat | Oceans, rivers, swamps |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
Description
The saltwater crocodile is an enormous reptile, with males growing to be up to 4.9 meters in length and females usually slightly smaller, and with some exceptional individuals even reaching 7 meters long!
These Crocs can weigh up to a hefty 1.4 tonnes! Their tail aids them in swimming as they propel through the water with their powerful musculature which often also has two rows of scales that run down their back.
Though once a hunted animal for its skin, Australia today values the species enough to legally protect it meaning hunting is strictly prohibited – though in cases where it may pose a threat to humans it will be moved from the scene should this occur.
In the past, many skins were exported for luxury leather goods and their meat was used for consumption purposes too but due to overhunting these became scarce leading to regulations being put into place between 1945-1958 when more than 87 000 skins were taken before legal protection was put into play.
In 1969 Western Australia, 1971 Northern Territory, and 1974, Queensland all implemented such measures that protect the species leading.
Reproduction
Every wet season in Australia, crocs show their defiance to the odds with a remarkable mating ritual: heads and bodies rubbed together for a rare display of emotion.
The female builds nests that are quite immense, pulling plants into its boundaries with her teeth and pushing them down with her back legs.
With up to 60 eggs laid at one time, these large and hard-shelled fertile specks take three months to hatch—with temperatures deciding on whether they’ll be boy or girl babies.
Once they emerge from the clutches of their guardian eggs, nimble mama croc carries each infant through her teeth directly to the safety of the water where few survive into adulthood.
Given all that standing against them, it’s no wonder why Crocs stay so choosy when showing care and affection—which they do in their own special way during this wondrous celebration of life.
Behavior
Saltwater crocodiles are a source of fear for many, but with the right knowledge and respect, they can be fascinating, wild creatures to admire.
These agile swimmers are swift on land and in water and have even been known to take down cars, reaching a full height of 7 feet.
Though it is unadvisable, some brave souls still venture into coastal waters where they dwell. For those seeking adventure in these areas care should be taken as saltwater crocodiles can lie undiscovered for up to one hour under the surface.
One must remember that although usually placid creatures if provoked or frightened they can spring into action with great force. In 1987 a Toyota Land Cruiser was knocked off the road by an angry tail protecting its territory at Cahill’s Crossing on the East Alligator River.
Saltwater crocodiles aren’t limited to coastal waters either – scientists have literally tracked them up to 145 miles from their natural habitat scope!
Though typically found near sea level, these amazing creatures span a much wider region than initially thought; expanses of fresh water being friendly homes for these top predators as well as salty seaside rivers.
Diet
Saltwater crocodiles have amazing hunting abilities. When the time comes for a meal, whether it be fish, crustaceans, small birds, or even grazing animals that have come to the water’s edge to drink, these predatory creatures will do whatever it takes to capture their dinner.
The size of prey depends on the size of the carnivore—the larger ones catch bigger prey while the smaller crocs might take something more modest in scale.
However they go about seeking out their dinner, these clever ancient predators will do whatever it takes to get plenty to eat.
The saltwater crocodile can endure long spans without food and with an array of hunting skills stretching back centuries, this impressive reptile makes sure its needs are met so that it can carry on as a respected figure within its natural habitat.
References
1. Australian Saltwater Crocodile Wikipedia article – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saltwater_crocodile
2. Australian Saltwater Crocodile on The IUCN Red List site – http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/5668/0
