SALTWATER CROCODILE
Species: Crocodylus porosus
DESCRIPTION
Saltwater Crocodiles are the largest living reptiles on Earth, known for their immense size, powerful jaws, and ancient appearance. Often called “salties,” these formidable predators are highly intelligent and surprisingly patient hunters, using stealth and sudden bursts of speed to capture prey. Despite their fearsome reputation, they play a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems. Strong swimmers and skilled ambush predators, Saltwater Crocodiles are an iconic symbol of northern Australia’s wild waterways.
DIET
Saltwater Crocodiles are carnivores, feeding on fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Larger individuals may hunt prey as big as buffalo. Their powerful jaws allow them to grip and drown prey before swallowing it whole or tearing it apart.
CONSERVATION STATUS
Saltwater Crocodiles are classified as Least Concern. Once heavily hunted, Saltwater Crocodiles are now protected in Australia. Populations have recovered well, though habitat protection and coexistence management remain important.
ANIMAL FACTS
SALTWATER CROCODILE
GROUP NAME
Saltwater Crocodiles are solitary, but when gathered, they are referred to as a bask.
Native To
Australia
SIZE
4-6 m
BABY NAME
Hatchlings
Habitat
They inhabit rivers, estuaries, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal waters. Saltwater Crocodiles can travel long distances at sea and often move between freshwater and saltwater environments with ease.
Did You Know?
Powerful Bite – They have the strongest bite force of any living animal.
Protective Parents – Mothers guard nests and gently carry hatchlings to water.
Sun Soakers – They bask to regulate body temperature and conserve energy.
Ocean Travellers – Saltwater Crocodiles can swim long distances in open ocean.
Ancient Survivors – Crocodiles have remained largely unchanged for over 200 million years.
MEET OUR
ANIMAL FAMILY
stay in touch with Your Australian wildlife parks family
Stay up-to-date and subscribe to our newsletters
Your information is only utilised by Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. For more information see our privacy policy.
Read our Ticket Terms and Conditions of Entry for all Australian Wildlife Parks here
Featherdale Wildlife Park acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the land on which our offices and operations are located, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.
© 2019-2026 Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park • Privacy Policy • Disclaimer
