Also known as “salties,” these crocs are formidable predators that dominate the apex predator hierarchy in their habitat. Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from eastern India to northern Australia and throughout Southeast Asia, saltwater crocodiles are renowned for their remarkable strength and ferocity.
These crocodiles are apex predators in their ecosystems, meaning they sit at the top of the food chain and have few natural predators themselves. Mature saltwater crocodiles are virtually unbeatable and can overpower almost any animal that enters their territory, including other apex predators like tigers and even large sharks. Their powerful jaws, equipped with rows of sharp teeth, allow them to deliver bone-crushing bites that can subdue even the strongest prey.
Despite their name, saltwater crocodiles are not restricted to purely marine habitats. While they are capable of surviving in highly saline waters, they are commonly found in coastal areas where the water is brackish or a mixture of saltwater and freshwater. These habitats provide abundant prey opportunities and suitable nesting sites for saltwater crocodiles.
Unfortunately, saltwater crocodile populations face significant threats from human activities. Illegal hunting for their valuable hide, habitat loss due to coastal development, pollution, and conflict with humans due to their reputation as man-eaters have all contributed to the decline of saltwater crocodile populations in some regions.
Distribution
Australia
Bangladesh
Brunei
Cambodia
East Timor
India
Indonesia
Malaysia
Myanmar
Palau
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Seychelles
Official estimate
Singapore
Solomon Islands
Sri Lanka
Thailand
Vanuatu
VietnamAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
