The Nile crocodile is Africa’s largest crocodile and the second largest existing reptile in the world, reaching up to six metres long and 730 kilograms in weight. They are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the Nile Basin and Madagascar in rivers, freshwater marshes, and mangrove swamps. These huge beasts mainly feed on fish but they will attack anything in their paths, including people. The figures are very sketchy but it is estimated that around 200 people per year die in the jaws of a Nile crocodile.
Crocodiles use an action referred to as ‘mouth gaping’, in order to keep cool. The ‘valve’ at the back of the throat allows the mouth to be open to catch and hold prey underwater without water entering the throat.
