DID YOU KNOW? Earth's largest living crocodilian is the saltwater or estuarine crocodile. Average-sized males reach 17 feet (5 metres) and 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms), but specimens 23 feet (7 metres) long and weighing 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms) are not uncommon.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Osteolaemus tetraspis Common Names: African Dwarf Crocodile, West African Dwarf Crocodile Countries: Angola; Benin; Burkina Faso; Cameroon; Central African Republic; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Congo; Côte d'Ivoire; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Liberia; Nigeria; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Togo Estimated wild population: 25,000 to 100,000 Summary: Populations heavily exploited in some areas, and survey data very poor, but wide distribution lends some security IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: VU A2cd (Vulnerable) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Africa dwarf crocodiles attain an adult length of 1.5 metres (5 feet), though the maximum recorded length for this species is 1.9 metres (6.2 feet). Adults are a uniform black on their backs and sides with a yellowish underside with black patches. Juveniles usually have lighter brown banding on the body and tails and yellow patterns on the head. As a result of its small size and heightened vulnerability to predation, this species of crocodile has a heavily armoured neck, back and tail and also has bony plates on its belly. African dwarf crocodiles have a blunt short snout, as long as it is wide.     Habitat and range     Dwarf crocodiles range across the tropical lowland regions of sub-Saharan West Africa and West Central Africa. Such a distribution greatly overlaps with that of the slender-snouted crocodile, including countries as far West as Senegal, reaching the Central African Republic in the East, and ranging as southerly as Angola.     Ecology and behaviour     The dwarf crocodile is a slow, timid, and mainly nocturnal reptile. As with all crocodilians, it is an adept predator of vertebrates, large invertebrates such as crustaceans and also eats carrion. Foraging is mainly done in or near the water, though in areas with substantial ground cover, they may expand their feeding pattern to include extensive forays inland. The Congo Basin subspecies demonstrates seasonality in its diet, feeding on fish during the wet season. When faced with the scarceness of food during the dry season, individuals prey on crustaceans and food intake is generally reduced. Adult dwarf crocodiles often dig out a burrow with a submerged entrance choosing to hide and rest during the day.     Conservation     Dwarf crocodiles are a little known species so, unlike their more studied relatives, conservationists aren't as aware of how their populations are faring under the growing human pressure over the ecosystems where they abide. Where survey data is available, it shows some degree of decline, either by hunting for bush meat or habitat loss due to deforestation. However, it is a widely spread, and presumably numerous species, so is not as endangered as other crocodilians. Though some skins are used in local manufacturing of leather products, they are of poor quality, so there is little interest in captive breeding or a sustainable use program.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Alligator mississippiensis Common Names: American Alligator, Gator Countries: United States Estimated wild population: More than 1,000,000 Summary: Widely distributed and numerous throughout most of its range IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The American Alligator has a large, slightly rounded body, with thick limbs, a broad head, and a very powerful tail. Adults generally have an olive, brown, grey or nearly black color with a creamy white underside. Algae-laden waters produce greener skin, while acid from overhanging trees can produce often darker skin. Adult male alligators are typically 3.4 to 4.4 metres (11.2 to 14.5 feet) in length, while adult females average 2.5 to 3.0 metres (8.2 to 9.8 feet). The tail, which accounts for half of the alligator's total length, is primarily used for aquatic propulsion. The tail can also be used as a weapon of defense when an alligator feels threatened. Alligators travel quickly in water and while they are generally slow-moving on land, alligators can lunge short distances very quickly. They have five claws on each front foot and four on each rear foot. American Alligators have a very strong bite, measured at up to 9,452 newtons (2,125 lbf) in laboratory conditions.     Habitat and range     American alligators are mostly found in the Southeastern United States, from North Carolina south to Everglades National Park in Florida and west to the southern tip of Texas. Florida and Louisiana currently have the largest population of alligators. Florida has an estimated population of 1 to 1.5 million while Louisiana has an estimated population of 1.5 to 2 million. Although primarily freshwater animals, alligators will occasionally venture into brackish water. Alligators live in wetlands and this is the vital habitat that holds the key to their continued long-term survival. Alligators depend on the wetlands, and in some ways the wetlands depend on them. As apex predators, they help control the population of rodents and other animals that might overtax the marshland vegetation. American alligators are less susceptible to cold than American Crocodiles. Unlike the American Crocodile, which would quickly succumb and drown in water of 7.2°C (45°F), an alligator can survive in such temperatures for some time without apparent discomfort. It is thought that this adaptiveness is the reason why American alligators spread farther north than the American Crocodile. In fact, the American alligator is found farther from the equator and is more equipped to deal with cooler conditions than any other crocodilian.     Ecology and behaviour     Alligators eat fish, birds, turtles, snakes, mammals, and amphibians. Hatchlings, however, are restricted to smaller prey items like invertebrates. Insects and larvae, snails, spiders, and worms make-up a big portion of a hatchling's diet. They will also eat small fish at any opportunity. As they grow, they gradually move onto larger fish, molluscs, frogs and small mammals like rats, and mice. Once an alligator reaches adulthood, any animal living in the water or coming to the water to drink is potential prey. Adult alligators will eat razorbacks, deer, domestic animals including cattle and sheep, and are often known to kill and eat smaller alligators. The American alligator is known as King of the Everglades, although the American Crocodile (which shares parts of the Everglades with the Alligator) has a far more powerful bite and is capable of growing larger, at least in tropical locations like Central America.     Conservation     Historically, alligators were depleted from many parts of their range as a result of market hunting and loss of habitat, and 30 years ago many people believed this unique reptile would never recover. In 1967, the alligator was listed as an endangered species (under a law that preceded the Endangered Species Act of 1973), meaning it was considered in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A combined effort by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, state wildlife agencies in the South, and the creation of large, commercial alligator farms saved these unique animals. The Endangered Species Act outlawed alligator hunting, allowing the species to rebound in numbers in many areas where it had been depleted. As the alligator began to make a comeback, states established alligator population monitoring programs and used this information to ensure alligator numbers continued to increase. In 1987, the Fish and Wildlife Service pronounced the American alligator fully recovered and consequently removed the animal from the list of endangered species. The Fish and Wildlife Service still regulates the legal trade in alligator skins and products made from them.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus acutus Common Names: American Crocodile Countries: Colombia; Costa Rica; Cuba; Dominican Republic; Ecuador; El Salvador; Guatemala; Haiti; Honduras; Jamaica; Mexico; Nicaragua; Panama; Peru; United States; Venezuela Estimated wild population: 10,000 to 20,000 Summary: Gradually recovering in the United States, but relatively poor survey data in Central and South America IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: VU A1ac (Vulnerable) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The American crocodile is larger than most crocodile species, with males reaching maximum length of 6.1 metres (20 feet) but mostly average 3.8m. American crocodiles normally crawl on their belly, but they can also "high walk". They can swim at as much as 20mph (32km/h) by moving their body and tail from side to side, but cannot sustain this speed over long distances. American crocodiles are more susceptible to cold than American alligators. Unlike the American alligator, which can subsist in water of 7.2°C (45°F) for some time, an American crocodile would become helpless and drown. American crocodiles, however, have a faster growth rate than alligators, and are much more tolerant of salt water.     Habitat and range     The American crocodile is found primarily in Central America. It is the most widespread of the four species of crocodiles from the Americas. Populations occur from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico to South America as far south as Peru and Venezuela. It also breeds on Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola, and there is a remnant population of less than 1200 in Florida, United States. The habitat of the American crocodile consists largely of coastal areas. It inhabits waters such as mangrove swamps, river mouths, fresh waters, and salt lakes and can even be found at sea (hence its wide distribution on the Caribbean islands). The species has also been recorded in Jamaica. American crocodiles in the United States cohabit with the American alligator, and are primarily found in Everglades National Park, Florida Bay, Biscayne Bay and the Florida Keys from Miami southward.     Conservation     Due to hide hunting, pollution, loss of habitat, and removal of adults for commercial farming, the American crocodile is endangered in parts of its range. In 1972, Venezuela banned commercial crocodile skin harvesting for a decade, as a result of overhunting in the 1950s and 1960s. Several thousand American crocodiles live in Mexico and Central and South America, but populations are data deficient. The American crocodile is considered a vulnerable species, but has not been assessed since 1996. It has an estimated wild population of 500 to 1200 in South Florida. On March 20, 2007, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service declassified the American crocodile as an endangered species, downgrading its status to "threatened". The reptile remains protected from illegal harassing, poaching or killing under the federal Endangered Species Act

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus johnsoni Common Names: Australian Freshwater Crocodile, Freshie, Johnson's Crocodile, Johnston's Crocodile, Johnstone's Crocodile Countries: Australia (Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia) Estimated wild population: 50,000 to 100,000 Summary: Healthy populations and remaining habitat, considered recovered from historical population declines IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The freshwater crocodile, also known as the Australian freshwater crocodile, or Johnston's crocodile, is a species of crocodile native to Australia. Found in the northern regions of Australia, it is much smaller than the other Australian species, the saltwater crocodile, which is responsible for attacks on people. Adult males can grow up to 3 metres (9.8 feet) long, while females reach a maximum size of 2.1 metres (6.9 feet). The body colour is light brown with darker bands on the body and tail - these tend to be broken up near the neck. Some individuals possess distinct bands or speckling on the snout. Body scales are relatively large, with wide, closely-knit armoured plates on the back. Rounded, pebbly scales cover the flanks and outsides of the legs. It also has a very long and narrow snout, which is more than 3 times as long as it is wide at its base.     Habitat and range     Freshwater crocodiles are found in the states of Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory. Main habitats include freshwater wetlands, rivers, and creeks. It competes poorly with Saltwater crocodiles but is saltwater tolerant. As an adult its diet consists of birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians and fish. This species can be found in areas where Saltwater Crocodiles cannot and are known to inhabit very arid and rocky conditions, where they are very common and relatively safe from saltwater crocodiles during the dry season. That being said, they are still consistently found in low-level wetlands, living alongside their larger cousins.     Conservation     This species, until recently, was common throughout much of northern Australia, especially where the much larger and far more dangerous Saltwater Crocodile is not found, but in recent years the population has dropped dramatically due to the ingestion of local populations of the invasive Cane Toad. The toad is lethally poisonous to Freshwater Crocodiles (although strangely harmless to Saltwater Crocodiles) and is rampant throughout the Australian wilderness.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Melanosuchus niger Common Names: Black Caiman Countries: Bolivia; Brazil; Colombia; Ecuador; French Guiana; Guyana; Peru Estimated wild population: Up to 1,000,000 Summary: Widely distributed but historically heavily populated, most populations appear to be recovering well IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRcd (Low risk, conservation dependent) Year Assessed: 2000     Physical description     The black caiman is a crocodilian species that lives along slow-moving rivers and lakes in the seasonally flooded savannas of the Amazon basin, and in other freshwater habitats in South America. Black caiman have a bony ridge over red eyes, and jet black skin. The skin coloration helps with camouflage during its nocturnal hunts, but may also help absorb heat. Mature adults have been recorded as growing up to 5 metres (16.4 feet) in length. The black caiman is the largest member of the Alligator family.     Ecology and behaviour     Black caiman prey on fish, including piranhas, catfish, and other animals, including birds, turtles, and land-dwelling animals like the capybara and deer. Larger specimens can take tapirs, anacondas and are capable of predation on potentially deadly predators such as pumas and jaguars. Their teeth are designed to grab but not rip, so they swallow their food whole after drowning it. Juveniles eat crustaceans and insects. Jaguars are a known predator of juvenile black caimans, but adults over 4 meters (13.1 feet) in length generally have no natural predator, as is true of other similar sized crocodilian species.     Conservation     The main predator of black caiman is humans, who hunt them for leather or meat. There are stories of this species devouring humans and given its size this is most definitely probable, although (like the critically endangered, but potentially dangerous Orinoco crocodile) it is very unlikely humans have been attacked in modern times due to the species' low population.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Caiman latirostris Common Names: Broad-snouted Caiman Countries: Argentina; Bolivia; Brazil; Paraguay; Uruguay Estimated wild population: 250,000 to 500,000 Summary: Widespread and relatively healthy populations IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The broad-snouted caiman is a crocodilian found in eastern and central South America, including southeastern Brazil, northern Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia. Its notable physical characteristic is a broad snout, from which its common name is derived. Most individuals tend to be of an olive-green colour, with exceptions occurring as adaptations to varying climates.The broad snouted caiman reaches an average length of 2.4m.     Ecology and behaviour     The diet of a broad-snouted caiman consists mainly of small invertebrates, and it can crush shells to feed on turtles and snails.     Conservation     The species is threatened due to illegal hunting and loss of habitat.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Alligator sinensis Common Names: China Alligator, Chinese Alligator Countries: China (Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang) Estimated wild population: Less than 200 Summary: Wild populations have very limited distribution and are virtually extinct IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CR A1c, D (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The Chinese Alligator or Yangtze Alligator is native only to China. It is smaller than the other alligator species, the American Alligator, growing to an average of 1.8 metres (6 feet). While its appearance is very similar to the American Alligator, there are differences. Unlike the American Alligator, the Chinese Alligator is fully armored; even the belly is armored, which is a feature of only a few crocodilians. They weigh up to 45kg (100lbs). Chinese alligators grow very slowly.     Habitat and range     While it originally ranged through much of China, this species' wild habitat has been reduced to little more than a few ponds containing a small number of animals (fewer than 200 individuals, only approximately 50 of which are mature) along the lower Yangtze River in the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui. Its population reduction has been mostly due to conversion of its habitat to agricultural use. Poisoning of rats, which the alligators then eat, has also been blamed for their decline. In the past decade, very few wild nests have been found, and even fewer produced healthy offspring.     Conservation     The Chinese alligator is listed as a CITES Appendix I species, which puts extreme restrictions on its trade and exportation throughout the world. It is IUCN Red Listed as a critically endangered species. Efforts are underway to reintroduce captive-bred animals to suitable wild habitats, but thus far have not met with much success. It is thought to be the most endangered crocodilian species.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus rhombifer Common Names: Cuban Crocodile Countries: Cuba Estimated wild population: 3,000 to 6,000 Summary: Drastically reduced distribution compared with former range, continued illegal hunting is a major threat IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CR A2cde (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 2008     Physical description     The Cuban Crocodile is a medium sized species of crocodile reaching 3.5m. It is only found in Cuba's Zapata Swamp and the Isla de Juventud. This species has numerous interesting characteristics that set it apart from other crocodilians, such as its brighter adult colours, rougher, more 'pebbled' scales, and long, strong legs. This species is the most terrestrial of crocodiles, and also possibly the most intelligent. A colony of this species at Gatorland, Florida has also exhibited what is strongly suspected to be pack-hunting behavior, which has prompted much interest in the species, usually kept singly and especially so after such reports.     Habitat and range     The Cuban crocodile has the smallest range of any crocodile. It can be found only in Cuba in the Zapata Swamp in the northwest and in the Lanier Swamp on Isla de Juventud. The historical range also included the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas. The Cuban Crocodile appears to favor freshwater habitat such as swamps, marshes, and rivers and rarely swims in saltwater.     Conservation     The Cuban Crocodile is an endangered species, listed on CITES appendix 1. Its restricted habitat and range make it very vulnerable. The main threat is humans, who have hunted the species extensively and encroached upon their habitats. The Cuban Crocodile is represented in captivity in the United States, where breeding projects are taking place. Today, 3,000 to 6,000 Cuban crocodiles are estimated to live in a small section of the southwestern part of the swamp. Because much information on the ecology and natural history of the Cuban Crocodile is still unknown, work needs to be done to increase and protect the remaining wild population.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Paleosuchus palpebrosus Common Names: Cuvier's Smooth-fronted Caiman, Dwarf Caiman Countries: Bolivia; Brazil; Colombia; Ecuador; French Guiana; Guyana; Paraguay; Peru; Suriname; Venezuela Estimated wild population: More than 1,000,000 Summary: Widely distributed with healthy populations and lack of significant population pressure IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The smallest species of crocodilian, male Cuvier's dwarf caiman reach a maximum length of 1.5 metres (4.9 feet), females rarely exceeding 1.2 metres (3.9 feet). It has one of the most remarkable head shapes of any crocodilian, being short, very smooth and concave, with a pronounced overlapping of the lower jaw by the upper. The skull shape may reflect increased use of burrows, which are used as shelter by adults during the day. Juveniles are brown with blank banding. Adults are darker.     Habitat and range     The Cuiver's dwarf caiman prefer freshwater forested rivers (drainages between and including the Amazon and Orinoco rivers, in addition to those in Paraguay) and flooded forests around larger lakes. Although it generally prefers clean, faster-flowing stretches of river, it does occur in very nutrient-poor waters in southeastern Brazil and Venezuela.     Ecology and behaviour     The diet of caimans is known to be dependent upon the habitat in which the caiman lives. Juveniles eat mainly invertebrates, whereas adults include a greater proportion of fish in their diets in addition to a variety of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. The short, backward-curved teeth are particularly suited to taking invertebrates such as crustaceans. It uses burrows as shelter during the day, and lays eggs on a mounded nest which hatch in about 3 months.     Conservation     Extensive survey data are available for this species, usually collected during surveys of other crocodilian species. The data shows that the species is widespread and relatively stable. There is little incentive for commercial exploitation.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus porosus Common Names: Estuarine Crocodile, Salt-water Crocodile Countries: Australia; Bangladesh; Brunei Darussalam; Cambodia; India; Indonesia; Malaysia; Myanmar; Palau; Papua New Guinea; Philippines; Solomon Islands; Sri Lanka; Vanuatu; Viet Nam Estimated wild population: 200,000 to 300,000 Summary: Widely distributed and numerous in Australia and Papua New Guinea but depleted elsewhere IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The saltwater or estuarine crocodile is the largest of all living crocodilians. An adult male saltwater crocodile can weigh up to 1500kg (3,300 pounds) and grow to lengths of over 6 metres.     Habitat and range     The saltwater crocodile is found in suitable habitats throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, and surrounding waters. Due to this species' tendency to travel very long distances at sea, individual saltwater crocodiles occasionally show up in odd locales where they are not native. Vagrant individuals have historically been reported on New Caledonia, Iwo Jima, Fiji, and even in the relatively frigid Sea of Japan (thousands of miles from their native territory.) Saltwater crocodiles generally spend the tropical wet season in freshwater swamps and rivers, moving downstream to estuaries in the dry season, and sometimes traveling far out to sea. Crocodiles compete fiercely with each other for territory, with dominant males in particular occupying the most eligible stretches of freshwater creeks and streams. Junior crocodiles are thus forced into the more marginal river systems and sometimes into the ocean. This explains the large distribution of the animal (ranging from the east coast of India to northern Australia) as well as its being found in odd places on occasion (such as the Sea of Japan).     Ecology and behaviour     The saltwater crocodile is an opportunistic apex predator capable of taking nearly any animal that enters its territory, either in the water or on dry land. They have also been known to attack humans. Juveniles are restricted to smaller animals such as insects, amphibians, crustaceans, small reptiles and fish. The larger the animal grows, the greater the variety of animals it includes in the diet, although relatively small prey make up an important part of the diet even in adults. Domestic cattle, horses, water buffalo and gaur, all of which may weigh over a ton, are considered the largest prey taken by male crocodiles. Generally very lethargic – a trait which helps it survive months at a time without food – it typically loiters in the water or basks in the sun through much of the day, preferring to hunt at night.     Conservation     Saltwater crocodiles are severely depleted in numbers throughout much of their range, and are virtually extinct in Thailand (a few individuals may persist in isolated national parks) and Vietnam. In Cambodia they may possibly exist in very small numbers within the country's rivers and mangroves, although this has not been officially confirmed. Although Saltwater Crocodiles were once very common in the Mekong Delta (from which they disappeared in the 1980s) and other river systems, the future of this species in Southeast Asia is now looking grim, given that population numbers are either critically low or completely extirpated from almost all regions within Indochina. However, it is also the least likely of crocodilians to become globally extinct due to its wide distribution and almost pre-colonial population sizes in Northern Australia and New Guinea.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Tomistoma schlegelii Common Names: False Gavial, False Gharial, Malayan Gharial, Tomistoma Countries: Indonesia (Kalimantan, Sumatera); Malaysia (Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak) Estimated wild population: Less than 2,500 Summary: Relatively poor survey data, generally widespread but depeleted IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: EN C1 (Endangered) Year Assessed: 2000     Physical description     The false gharial, also known as the Malayan gharial or false gavial, is a fresh-water reptile, resembling a crocodile with a very thin and elongated snout resembling that of the gharial, hence its name. It grows to a maximum of 5m.     Habitat and range     The false gharial is native to six river systems in Sumatra and Malaysia. It is also found in Borneo, Java, Vietnam, Thailand (not seen since 1970) and possibly Sulawesi. Fossils found in Southern China indicate that at some point this species occurred there in the past.     Ecology and behaviour     The false gharial, like all other crocodilian species, lays eggs. It is not known when the species breeds in the wild or when its nesting season is. Females will lay a clutch of 30-60 eggs in a mound of dry leaves or peat. Once the eggs are laid, and construction of the mound is completed, she abandons her nest. Unlike most other crocodilian species, the young receive no parental care and are at risk of being eaten by predators like mongooses, big cats such as tigers and leopards, civets, and wild dogs.     Conservation     The false gharial is threatened with extinction throughout most of its range due to the drainage of its freshwater swamplands and clearance of surrounding rainforests. The species is also hunted frequently for its skin and meat, and the eggs are often harvested for human consumption. However, positive steps have been taken by the Malaysian and Indonesian governments to prevent its extinction in the wild.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Gavialis gangeticus Common Names: Fish-eating Crocodile, Gavial, Gharial, Indian Gavial, Indian Gharial, Long-nosed Crocodile Countries: India (Bihar, Uttar Pradesh); Nepal Estimated wild population: Less than 2,500 Summary: Extremely fragmented distribution, deteriorating status and intense pressure from human activities IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CE A2bc; C1 (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 2007     Physical description     The gharial, sometimes called the Indian gavial or gavial, is one of two surviving members of the family Gavialidae, a long-established group of crocodile-like reptiles with long, narrow jaws. The gharial is one of the longest of all living crocodilians. The physical attributes of the gharial do not make it very suited for moving about on land. In fact the only reasons the gharial leaves the water is either to bask in the sun or to nest on the sandbanks of the river.     Habitat and range     Usually found in the river systems of Pakistan and the Brahmaputra (Bangladesh, Bhutan & North eastern India), the Ganges (Bangladesh, India & Nepal), and the Mahanadi (India), with small numbers in Kaladan and the Ayeyarwady River in Myanmar. It is sympatric, in respective areas, with the Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) and the Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). There have been some small-scale projects to breed and release Gharials, for example in Nepal's Chitwan National Park. Riverine—most adapted to the calmer areas in the deep fast moving rivers.     Ecology and behaviour     Juvenile gharials eat insects, larvae, and small frogs. Mature adults feed almost solely on fish, although some individuals have been known to scavenge dead animals. Their snout is ideally suited for hunting fish; their long, narrow snouts afford very little resistance to water in swiping motions to snap up fish in the water. Their numerous needle-like teeth are perfect for holding on to struggling, slippery fish. Gharials will often use their body to corral fish against the bank where they can be more easily snapped up.     Conservation     In the 1970s the gharial came to the brink of extinction and even now remains on the critically endangered list. The conservation efforts of the environmentalists in cooperation with several governments has led to some reduction in the threat of extinction. Some hope lies with the conservation and management programs in place as of 2004. Full protection was granted in the 1970s in the hope of reducing poaching losses, although these measures were slow to be implemented at first. Now there are 9 protected areas for this species in India which are linked to both captive breeding and 'ranching' operations where eggs collected from the wild are raised in captivity (to reduce mortality due to natural predators) and then released back into the wild (the first being released in 1981). More than 3000 animals have been released through these programs, and the wild population in India is estimated at around 1500 animals – with perhaps between one and two hundred animals in the remainder of its range.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Caiman yacare Common Names: Yacaré Caiman, Jacare Caiman Countries: Argentina; Bolivia; Brazil; Paraguay Estimated wild population: 100,000 to 200,000 Summary: Widespread and numerous populations, although locally depleted IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The Jacare Caiman is a species of caiman found in central South America, including northern Argentina, eastern Bolivia, south-west Brazil (especially in the Pantanal marshland), and the rivers of Paraguay. Adult males may reach up to 3 metres (9.8 feet) in length.     Ecology and behaviour     Jacare Caiman have a diet of fish, molluscs, mammals (capybara), and crustaceans. Females are mound nesters, with egg-laying (21-38 eggs) usually peaking in the middle of the wet season.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus moreletii Common Names: Belize Crocodile, Morelet's Crocodile Countries: Belize; Guatemala; Mexico Estimated wild population: 10,000 to 20,000 Summary: Recent survey information shows moderate densities, and still found over its historic distribution IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRcd (Low risk, conservation dependent) Year Assessed: 2000     Physical description     The Central American crocodile is known as the Morelet’s crocodile or the “Mexican crocodile.” It is small in size compared to other crocodiles. The males can become larger than the females; this is known as sexual dimorphism. This species can reach a maximum length of around 4 metres as adults and is similar to the American and Cuban crocodiles in appearance. There are features of this species that set it apart and make it easy to identify. It has 66 to 68 teeth when they are fully matured. Crocodiles can be distinguished from alligators because of their teeth in both their upper and lower jaws. Their teeth in both jaws are perfectly aligned. The fourth tooth on the bottom jaw of the crocodile is visible when their jaw is closed because it is slightly bigger than the rest of its teeth.     Habitat and range     Morelet's crocodile can be found in freshwater habitats in Central America and along the Gulf of Mexico stretching through Belize, Guatemala, and to Mexico. In their freshwater habitats they prefer isolated areas that are secluded. This species of crocodile can be largely found in freshwater swamps and marshes which are located inland, and in large rivers and lakes.     Ecology and behaviour     Juvenile Morelet's crocodiles feed largely on fish and insects until they become bigger and more capable of bringing down larger prey. Adults will prey on small mammals, birds, and even other reptiles. These small mammals can include domesticated animals like cats and dogs as well as other wild animals. Crocodiles have been known to be cannibalistic, this includes eating their young. Breeding usually talks place between April and June. A female crocodile can lay between 20 and 45 eggs. Nests can be found near the water and the eggs usually hatch after 80 days of incubation. The eggs are buried and the nests are guarded by both parents to protect their unborn young from predators. Once the eggs have hatched the female crocodile will carry her young to the water and will later leave them to fend for themselves.     Conservation     The Morelet's crocodile has long been threatened by habitat destruction and illegal hunting. Both of these factors have significantly lowered their populations. It was extensively hunted for its hide during the 1940s and 1950s.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus palustris Common Names: Broad-snouted Crocodile, Marsh Crocodile, Mugger Crocodile Countries: India; Iran, Islamic Republic of; Nepal; Pakistan; Sri Lanka Estimated wild population: 5,000 to 10,000 Summary: Relatively poor survey data, generally widespread but depeleted IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: VU A1a, C2a (Vulnerable) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The mugger crocodile (literally "crocodile of the marsh" in Urdu), also called the Iranian, marsh, muggar or Persian crocodile, is perhaps the most broad-snouted of the crocodiles. The species is found in India, Pakistan and Iran, and is abundant in Sri Lanka where they occur in the numerous man-made lakes there. Although some mature individuals may reach 5 metres (16.4 feet) in length, they do not generally exceed 4 metres (13.1 feet).     Habitat and range     Mainly a freshwater species, the mugger crocodile is found in lakes, rivers and marshes. Muggers prefer slow-moving, shallower bodies of water rather than, fast-flowing, deep areas. Also known to thrive in man-made reservoirs and irrigation canals. Although it prefers freshwater, it has some tolerance to saltwater therefore is occasionally reported from saltwater lagoons.     Ecology and behaviour     Being a large carnivorous reptile, the mugger crocodile eats fish, other reptiles and small mammals, such as monkeys. In fact, most vertebrates that approach to drink are potential prey, and may suffer being seized and dragged into the water to be drowned and devoured at leisure. Large adults will sometimes prey on large mammals such as deer and domestic water buffalo. Mature adults compete directly with the tiger over kills. Either species may give way on occasion, with the size and health of the animals involved the determining factor. Tigers also prey on muggers on occasion, being the only natural predators of adult muggers other than other crocodiles. There are reports of attacks on humans and there has been at least one confirmed fatality in Iran. This species is generally considered to be occasionally dangerous to humans, but nowhere near as notorious as the much larger (and, in India, less common) saltwater crocodile.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus novaeguineae Common Names: New Guinea Crocodile Countries: Indonesia (Irian Jaya); Papua New Guinea Estimated wild population: 50,000 to 100,000 Summary: Highly successful management program in Papua New Guinea has led to healthy populations in good habitats IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The New Guinea crocodile is a small species of crocodile found on the island of New Guinea. Adults grows to a length of up to 3.5 metres (11.4 feet) for the males and 2.7 metres (8.8 feet) for the females. The body is grey-brown in colour, with dark brown to black markings on the tail. The snout is pointed and relatively narrow during juvenile stages and becomes wider as the animal matures. It bears a physical similarity to the nearby Philippine crocodile.     Habitat and range     The primarily nocturnal crocodile is to be found in the freshwater swamps and lakes of New Guinea, particular in the interior. Although tolerant of saltwater, it is rarely to be found in coastal waters, and never in the presence of the competing saltwater crocodile.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus niloticus Common Names: Nile Crocodile Countries: Angola; Benin; Botswana; Burkina Faso; Burundi; Cameroon; Central African Republic; Chad; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the; Côte d'Ivoire; Egypt; Equatorial Guinea; Eritrea; Ethiopia; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Liberia; Madagascar; Malawi; Mali; Mauritania; Mozambique; Namibia; Niger; Nigeria; Rwanda; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Somalia; South Africa; Sudan; Swaziland; Tanzania, United Republic of; Togo; Uganda; Zambia; Zimbabwe Estimated wild population: 250,000 to 500,000 Summary: Wide distribution coupled with healthy populations and successful management in many areas IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The Nile Crocodile is an African crocodile common in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zambia. Nile Crocodiles have a dark bronze colouration above, with black spots on the back and on the belly. The flanks, which are yellowish green in colour, have dark patches arranged in oblique stripes. There is some variation relative to environment; specimens from swift flowing waters tend to be lighter in colour than those dwelling in lakes or swamps. Nostrils, eyes, and ears are situated on the tops of their head, so the rest of the body can remain concealed underwater. The Nile crocodile is the largest crocodilian in Africa and is regarded as the third largest crocodilian after the Saltwater crocodile and the gharial. Adult males measure from 3.5 to 5 metres long (11.4 to 16.4 feet), but very old, mature individuals can grow to 5.5 metres (18 feet) or more. Males usually weigh about 500kg (1100 lbs). The largest accurately measured male was shot near Mwanza, Tanzania and measured 6.45 m (21.1 feet) and weighed approximately 1,090 kg (2,403 lb).     Habitat and range     The species is widely distributed in Africa (Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Mauritania, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe) and is a species upon which a considerable research effort has been expended.     Ecology and behaviour     he Nile crocodile is an opportunistic apex predator capable of taking almost any animal that is within attacking range. They start life very small however, therefore the diet of hatchlings consists of smaller prey. Hatchlings eat insects and small aquatic invertebrates, and quickly graduate to amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Adult crocodiles prefer to consume larger prey to conserve energy. Nile crocodiles have a very broad diet and can potentially eat nearly any animal that comes to take a drink at the edge of the water. The most frequently recorded mammalian prey taken by Nile crocodiles are waterbuck, sitatunga, lechwe, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, goats, sheep and cattle. Larger herbivores such as Cape buffalo and giraffes are also preyed upon. In addition, there is at least one record of a group of crocodiles killing a female Black Rhinoceros in the Tana river. Predators like hyenas, leopards and other crocodiles, including their own species, have been recorded to be eaten. Big cats have occasionally been observed preying on young crocodiles and in contrast large adult crocodiles have been observed attacking both leopards and lions when food is scarce. Generally large predators avoid other large predators given the high risk of injury (although crocodiles are much better equipped to deal with infection and limb loss than other predators, with many crocodiles living to old age with missing arms, legs or portions of the jaw.) Adults are the apex predators of their environment and are not preyed on.     Conservation     From the 1940s to the 1960s, the Nile crocodile was hunted, primarily for high-quality leather, though also for meat and purported curative properties. The population was severely depleted, and the species faced extinction. National laws, and international trade regulations have resulted in a resurgence in many areas, and the species as a whole is no longer threatened with extinction. There are an estimated 250,000 to 500,000 individuals in the wild. Successful sustainable-yield programs focused on ranching crocodiles for their skins have been successfully implemented in this area, and even countries with quotas are moving toward ranching. In 1993, 80,000 Nile crocodile skins were produced, the majority from ranches in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The Nile crocodile is the top predator in its environment, and is responsible for checking the population of species like the barbel catfish, a predator that can overeat fish populations that other species, like birds, depend on. The Nile crocodile also consumes dead animals that would otherwise pollute the waters. While illegal poaching is no longer a problem, they are threatened by pollution, hunting, and accidental entanglement in fishing nets.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus intermedius Common Names: Orinoco Crocodile Countries: Colombia; Venezuela Estimated wild population: 250 to 1,500 Summary: Significant population declines and limited distribution mean this species is very seriously threatened in the wild IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CR A1c, C2a (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Typical measurements for adults range from 3 to 4.8 metres (9.8 to 15.7 feet). Typical weight for mature females is 200 kg (440 lbs) and 380 kg (837 lbs) for males. The largest specimen reported was shot in 1800 and allegedly measured 6.6 metres (21.6 feet), although this is unconfirmed and modern Orinoco Crocodiles are not thought to exceed 5 metres (16.4 feet). The Orinoco Crocodile can be recognised by its relatively long snout and its yellowish hide with dark brown bands.     Habitat and range     The Orinoco Crocodile is restricted to the Orinoco and Meta drainage basins in Colombia and Venezuela. They have been reported on the island of Trinidad, but this has not been confirmed and may have been mistaken for an American crocodile.     Ecology and behaviour     The Orinoco Crocodiles mates during the drier period of the year. The eggs incubate for around 3 months. During the night they hatch and call to their mother who digs them out of the nest and carries them to the water. The young are defended by their mother for a year. Young Orinoco Crocodiles are often at risk from vultures, tegu lizards, anacondas, caimans and other carnivores.     Conservation     The Orinoco Crocodile was given protected status in the 1970s. Today it is protected both in Venezuela and Colombia, and also included on Appendix I by CITES. In addition to hunting for its hide, more recent threats also include the collection of juveniles for sale in the live animal trade, pollution and the proposal of a dam in the upper Orinoco River region. It is unclear how many individuals remain in the wild, but estimates range between 250-1500 individuals. The population in Colombia is very low, with the largest sub-population estimated at around 50 individuals in the Casanare area. The largest sub-population in Venezuela is in Cojedes and Sararé, with less than 500 adults remaining. A number of other smaller sub-populations exists.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus mindorensis Common Names: Philippines Crocodile Countries: Philippines Estimated wild population: Less than 200 Summary: Considered at very high risk of extinction due to small populations, limited distribution and ineffective management IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CR A1c, C2a (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     The Philippine crocodile is a relatively small freshwater crocodilian native to the Philippines. It is also known as the Mindoro crocodile and the Philippine freshwater crocodile. Philippine crocodiles are relatively small, growing no more than 3 metres (9.8 feet) in length. They have thick bony plates on its back. Females are slightly smaller than males.     Habitat and range     The Philippine crocodile is only found on the islands of the Philippines. This species of crocodile is one of the most severely threatened species of crocodilian. There are probably less than 100 non-hatchling Philippine crocodiles surviving in the wild.     Conservation     In the Philippines, it is strictly prohibited to kill a crocodile, but its status is critically endangered from exploitation and unsustainable fishing methods, such as dynamite fishing. Conservation methods are being taken by the Dutch Mabuwaya foundation, the Crocodile Conservation Society and the Zoological Institute of HerpaWorld in Mindoro.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Paleosuchus trigomatus Common Names: Schneider's Smooth-fronted Caiman, Smooth-fronted Caiman Countries: Bolivia; Brazil; Colombia; Ecuador; French Guiana; Guyana; Peru; Suriname; Venezuela Estimated wild population: More than 1,000,000 Summary: Widely distributed with healthy populations and lack of significant population pressure IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Schneider's Smooth-fronted Caiman, also known as the Smooth-fronted Caiman, is a crocodilian from South America. It is the second smallest species of the Alligatoridae family reaching an adult length of 1.8 metres.     Habitat and range     It is found in the Amazon Basin of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus siamensis Common Names: Siamese fresh water crocodile Countries: Cambodia; Indonesia; Malaysia; Viet Nam, Thailand Estimated wild population: Less than 5,000 Summary: Extinct or nearly extinct in most countries except Cambodia IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: CR A1c (Critically endangered) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Adult male Siamese crocodiles may reach lengths of 4 metres (13.1 feet).     Habitat and range     The Siamese crocodileis a freshwater crocodile native to Indonesia (Borneo and possibly Java), Brunei, East Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Burma, Thailand, and Vietnam. In the wild they prefer slow moving waters like swamps, rivers, and some lakes.     Conservation     Due to excessive hunting and habitat loss this crocodile is a critically endangered species. In 1992, it was believed to be extinct in the wild or very nearly so. Since then, a number of surveys have confirmed the presence of a tiny population in Thailand, a small population in Vietnam (possibly less than 100 individuals), and more sizable populations in Burma and Laos. There is a very small remnant population in northern Cambodia. The total wild population is estimated to be less than 5000 individuals. In the Bang Sida National Park in Thailand, near Cambodia, there is a project to reintroduce Siamese crocodile into the wild. A number of young crocodiles have been released into a small and remote river in the park, not accessible to visitors.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Crocodylus cataphractus Common Names: African Sharp-nosed Crocodile, African Slender-snouted Crocodile, Long-snouted Crocodile Countries: Angola; Benin; Burkina Faso; Cameroon; Central African Republic; Chad; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the; Côte d'Ivoire; Equatorial Guinea; Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Liberia; Mali; Mauritania; Nigeria; Sierra Leone; Tanzania, United Republic of; Togo; Zambia Estimated wild population: Unknown, possibly 25,000 to 50,000 Summary: Status and distribution is very poorly known, but thought to be depleted in many areas across its distribution IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: DD (Data deficient) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Slender-snouted crocodiles are native to freshwater habitats in central and western Africa. They are a medium sized crocodile and grow to about 4 metres (13.1 feet) in length. They have a slender snout used for catching prey, hence their name. Their diet consists mainly of fish, amphibians and crustaceans.     Habitat and range     The species is restricted to Central and West Africa (Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia) and until recently, was one of the least known crocodilians.     Ecology and behaviour     Slender-snouted crocodiles begin to breed in the rainy season. The female constructs a mound nest consisting mainly of plant matter, which is sited usually on river banks and lays an average of 16 eggs about a week after completion of the mound nest. The incubation period is long compared with most other crocodilian species, sometimes lasting over 110 days. The female remains close to the nest, but does not defend it with the same vigour as some other species of crocodilians. Once the eggs begin to hatch, and the juveniles emit their characteristic chirping, she will break open the nest and assist in the hatching process. Hatchlings then disperse across the flooded forest floor. Although losses from predators do occur, they are minimal, possibly accounting for the small number of relatively large eggs laid, and the long incubation period.     Conservation     Though its status is unknown, it is believed that the population is dwindling and may be threatened.

Scientific classification and population     Scientific Name: Caiman crocodilus Common Names: Common Caiman, Spectacled Caiman Countries: Brazil; Colombia; Costa Rica; Ecuador; El Salvador; French Guiana; Guatemala; Guyana; Honduras; Mexico; Nicaragua; Panama; Peru; Suriname; Trinidad and Tobago; Venezuela Estimated wild population: More than 1,000,000 Summary: The most common of all crocodilian species, although some populations are locally depleted IUCN Red List of Threatend Species Category: LRlc (Low risk, least concern) Year Assessed: 1996     Physical description     Males of the species are generally 2.5 metres (6.5 to 8.2 feet), while females are smaller, usually around 1.4 metres (4.5 feet). The species' common name comes from a bony ridge between the eyes, which gives the appearance of a pair of spectacles.     Habitat and range     Spectacled Caimans are widespread throughout Central and South America, and appear adept at surviving in a great variety of habitats, but preferring lakes, ponds, marshes and meandering tributaries of rivers where the current is not fast. They are particularly abundant within some South American countries. Three subspecies of Caiman crocodilus are recognised, but distinguishing them from each other is not easy. It lives in a range of lowland wetland and riverine habitat types and can tolerate salt water as well as fresh; due in part to this adaptability, it is the most common of all crocodilian species.     Ecology and behaviour     During the dry season, spectacled caimans can congregate in large numbers in small pools. At such times, large caimans may prey on small ones. Juvenile caiman feed on a variety of aquatic invertebrate prey, including crustaceans and insects. Adults also take snails and crustaceans, but larger prey such as deer and pigs may also be taken.     Conservation     Despite pressure from hunting and also collection for the pet trade, existing surveys suggest that populations are in relatively good condition in most areas. This seems to reflect the adaptability of the species, its reproductive potential, and the increase in available habitat through the removal of competing species and an increase in man-made water bodies. However, it is these factors which make it difficult to determine the overall status of the species, as populations are faring less well in other areas.

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