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Saltwater Crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

Photo by LeanneGardner
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

The Saltwater crocodile is the largest living reptile. They are cold blooded & hold a temperature similar to the surrounding air. For this reason they seek warm, temperate, year round climates. In Australia, they're restricted to the warmer climate regions, from about Rockhampton in Queensland, around the top end to Broome in Western Australia.

Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodiles are a little different to "Freshwater Crocs". They have a broader snout & an irregular jaw-line with irregular sized teeth. They vary in colour from grey, olive-brown to almost black, with ragged dark mottling. Males can grow to 7 metres (23 feet) but most are less than 5 metres. Females are usually less than 4 metres in length and may begin nesting at about 12 years of age. Maximum lifespan is unknown however it is estimated that they can live for at least 70 to 100 years.

Habitat:

Saltwater crocodiles are found in warm, temperate climates. They are mostly found in brackish estuaries, in dirty murky waters where they can easily hide undetected.

Notes:

All spottings are on the Proserpine River. These were seen on a chartered safari in their natural habitat.

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Comments (8)

Thank you Ashutosh Dudhatra. They are amazing to see so close up.
You've got that right Hema Shah. The demand for their skin is high. It's a booming trade here. Many years ago they were hunted to a critical level for this reason, thankfully, they are now fully protected & captive breeding has ensured everyone gets what they want. Thank you Hema Shah.
no wonder Crocodile skin purses are so popular! Beautiful. Especially last pic.
Yes we certainly were close Mark. I managed to get dozens of shots like these. They are beautiful & super scary all at the same time. I kept my limbs inside the boat at all times!
Thanks Nayeli. They are a sight to behold! Amazing creatures.
Photographed
PublishedAugust 18, 2015

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