Mecistops – Slender-snouted crocodiles

Slender-snouted crocodiles are elusive reptiles found deep in the forests of central and western Africa. These crocodiles are known for their unmistakable long and slender snouts, which lack bony ridges. Their snout is perfectly adapted for capturing fish —the primary source of food for the species.

They hunt by the shoreline and trap fish in shallow waters. Larger members may prey opportunistically on the occasional bird or small mammal. These crocodiles are threatened by fishing practices, human disturbance, hunting, habitat degradation, and fragmentation across their entire range and need our immediate attention.