Crocodiles might be dangerous predators, but they are also very interesting and unique animals. It seems like we know all there is to know about them, but is that really so? For example, you surely have heard that if you ever cross paths with a crocodile or an alligator you should run away in zig-zags. Well, wrong. Outrunning an adult crocodile is a difficult task, so don’t lose your breath on changing direction, rather put as many miles between you and the animal as possible. Better still, avoid crocodile habitats altogether, especially if not supervised by a ranger or other professionals. And where do crocodiles live? Naturally, near water bodies.
Of course, the main question when it comes to crocodiles is what is the difference between an alligator and a crocodile? Okay, that one’s easy. One will see you later and the other one after a while. And though these two are not different types of the same animal, there are 18 types of crocodiles that scientists currently recognize, with the saltwater crocodile being the largest and most aggressive of all.
Crocodiles don’t make good pets. Ever. No exceptions. Crocodiles don’t have emotions and affections; they have instincts. And if the instinct is to fill the belly, it will fill the belly — with you, its owner, if you happen to be the closest food option. I mean, have you seen a crocodile eating?
However, if you are interested in crocodiles and keep asking yourself questions like “Do crocodiles age?” and “Which crocodile set a size record?”, we have collected facts about crocodiles for you to read and learn new things about these fascinating, albeit dangerous creatures.
#22
Crocodiles are carnivores, which generally means they eat only meat. However, a recent study proved they also enjoy an occasional taste of fruit.
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14points
#23
Crocodiles can be found in all inhabited continents with the exception of Europe and Antarctica.
14points
#25
Black sports around alligator's mouth are sense organs that the it uses to detect changes in water pressure caused by the movement of potential prey.
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14points
#26
Crocodiles don’t sweat. To keep cool, they open their mouths which is known as “mouth gaping,” very similar to panting.
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13points
#27
Crocodiles are quite a versatile reptile which means they can live in a variety of environments. Some of these may include lakes, rivers, freshwater bodies, salt water and brackish water (a combination of salt and freshwater).
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13points
#31
Alligators kill around one person in the United States every year, while crocodiles kill around 1,000 people in Africa alone every year.
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13points
#32
The crocodilian’s tongue is attached to the bottom of its mouth, so it never moves.
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13points
#33
Crocodiles have acute senses, an evolutionary advantage that makes them highly successful predators.
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12points
#34
Crocodiles perform a ‘death roll’ to overcome prey, clamping on using their jaws, and spinning around powerfully.
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12points
#39
The ancient Egyptians and some tribes in New Guinea are just two of the cultures that honored the crocodile.
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12points
#40
Crocodiles are extremely fast in the water, swimming up to speeds of 35 kilometers per hour (22 mph).
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11points