Saltwater Crocodile

Saltwater Crocodile Latest News

The estimated population of saltwater crocodiles, one of the largest reptiles in the world, has increased in the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (SBR) from last year, according to a population survey by the State’s Forest Department.

About Saltwater Crocodile

• It is the largest and heaviest of all living reptiles in the world.
• Scientific Name: Crocodylus porosus
• It is also known as the estuarine crocodile, Indo-Pacific crocodile, marine crocodile, sea crocodile,  or informally as saltie.
• It is an opportunistic hypercarnivorous apex predator.
• Distribution: It is native to saltwater habitats and brackish wetlands from India’s east coast across Southeast Asia and the Sundaic region to northern Australia and Micronesia.

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Saltwater Crocodile Features

• The average male is 5 m in length and weighs around 500 kg, while females are significantly smaller, with the average female saltwater crocodile measuring a little under 3 m in length and weighing less than 100 kg.
• Their coloration varies, typically featuring a dark, greenish-brown hue with lighter underbellies, which helps them blend into their aquatic surroundings. 
• They have thick, armored skin made of tough scales that protect them from potential threats.
• They are solitary creatures, especially when it comes to adult males. 
• They are highly territorial, with large male saltwater crocodiles often controlling extensive stretches of rivers, estuaries, or coastlines.

Saltwater Crocodile Conservation Status

It is classified as ‘Least Concern’ under the IUCN Red List.

Source: TH