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Gharial

Gavialis gangeticus

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26.21, 78.17

Field Notes

Notes:

Unlike most crocodilians, the gharial is not a man-eater and tends to be very sensitive when intimidated by humans. Despite its immense size, its thin and fragile jaws render it physically incapable of consuming a large animal, especially a human being. The species has undergone both chronic long term and a rapid short-term declines it is listed as a Critically Endangered by IUCN. Kept in Gwalior Zoo.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)

Actually, most crocodilians are not maneaters; only about 1/3 of the 23 or so crocodilians will make unprovoked attacks on humans (including this species!) and even fewer are serious predators... The gharial seems to prey on fish mostly but very large specimenns are reported to eat other prey.

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Photographed
PublishedJune 6, 2012

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