Main Characteristics

Nile Crocodiles are the largest species of crocodile in Africa. They have a body length between 3.5 and 6 m (11 - 20 ft) and they weigh between 225 and 500 kgs (500 - 1,100 lbs).

Habitat

Nile Crocodiles can be found in the rivers, lakes, estuaries, marshes and lagoons of Africa and western Madagascar. They are solitary but sometimes several crocodiles gather together to feed.

Diet

Nile Crocodiles feed on fish, antelope, zebras, birds, carrion or anything that is unfortunate enough to come within striking distance.

Breeding

Nile Crocodiles lay 16 - 80 eggs in a hole dug on a river bank high above the level of the water. The female guards the eggs throughout incubation and upon hatching the young crocodiles call out and the female will gently dig them out and carry them to the water in her mouth. They stay together for 6 - 8 weeks then they gradually disperse.

Predators

Nile Crocodiles have no natural predators and they are apex predators in their environment.

Interesting Facts

Nile Crocodiles are also known as:
Mamba (in Swahili)
Garwe (in Shona)
Ngwenya (in Ndebele)
Olom (in Nubian)

Mummified crocodiles and their eggs have been found in egyptian tombs.

Similar Animals

Saltwater Crocodile
American Crocodile
Orinoco Crocodile