Undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and iconic reptiles in Africa, renowned for its widespread distribution across the continent. From the ancient waters of the Nile River in Egypt to the expansive waterways of East Africa, these formidable predators command respect and evoke fear among both humans and wildlife alike.

Nile crocodiles are ambush predators, waiting for their prey before attacking. They have powerful jaws and sharp teeth that can crush the bones of their prey. Nile crocodiles are also very territorial and will defend their territory aggressively from other crocodiles and predators.

Despite their fearsome reputation, Nile crocodiles exhibit surprisingly complex social behaviors and maternal instincts. Female crocodiles meticulously guard their nests and eggs, carefully regulating the temperature and moisture levels to ensure the survival of their offspring. Once hatched, young crocodiles remain under the protective watch of their mother for nearly two years, learning essential survival skills and feeding on small fish before venturing out on their own.

As opportunistic predators, Nile crocodiles have a varied diet that evolves as they mature. While young crocodiles primarily feed on small fish and insects, adults become apex predators, preying on a wide range of animals, including zebras, porcupines, birds, and even other crocodiles.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Angola

2017

Botswana

2017

Burundi

2017

Cameroon

2017

Congo-Brazzaville

2017

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2017

Egypt

2017

Equatorial Guinea

2017

Eritrea

2017

Eswatini

2017

Ethiopia

2017

Gabon

2017

Israel

Official estimate

EX

Last hunted 1912

Kenya

2017

Madagascar

2017

Malawi

2017

Mozambique

2017

Namibia

2017

Rwanda

2017

Somalia

2017

South Africa

2017

South Sudan

2017

Sudan

2017

Tanzania

2017

Uganda

2017

Zambia

2017

Zimbabwe

2017