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Crocodiles

Crocodylinae

Crocodiles or “true crocodiles” are large, semi-aquatic reptiles in the family Crocodylidae. They occur mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and northern Australia. Size, snout shape, behavior, and ecology vary by species, but most crocodiles spend much of their time in or near water. They typically inhabit swamps, lakes, and rivers, although some species also use brackish water and even the sea. Crocodiles are carnivores. Hatchlings and juveniles often take small prey (such as insects and other invertebrates), and vertebrates (especially fish) become increasingly important as crocodiles grow. Large individuals may also prey on birds and mammals. Like all crocodilians, crocodiles are ectothermic, so temperature strongly affects their activity and where they can live. Compared with alligators, crocodiles are generally less cold-tolerant and are therefore more restricted to warm climates.

Crocodiles or “true crocodiles” are large, semi-aquatic reptiles in the family Crocodylidae. They occur mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and northern Australia. Size, snout shape, behavior, and ecology vary by species, but most crocodiles spend much of their time in or near water. They typically inhabit swamps, lakes, and rivers, although some species also use brackish water and even the sea. Crocodiles are carnivores. Hatchlings and juveniles often take small prey (such as insects and other invertebrates), and vertebrates (especially fish) become increasingly important as crocodiles grow. Large individuals may also prey on birds and mammals. Like all crocodilians, crocodiles are ectothermic, so temperature strongly affects their activity and where they can live. Compared with alligators, crocodiles are generally less cold-tolerant and are therefore more restricted to warm climates.