Scientific name:
Crocodylus porosus
Other names:
Salty, Estuarine Crocodile
Diet:
Carnivore (Fish, mammals, birds)
Max Length:
6.0+ Metres
Habitat:
Rivers, estuaries, coastal sea
Status:
Least Concern, Vulnerable in Queensland
The Saltwater Crocodile, affectionately known as the “Salty,” is the largest living reptile on the planet. They are living dinosaurs, having remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.
A male Salty can grow to over 6 meters and weigh 1,000kg. Their jaws exert the strongest bite force of any animal—over 3,700 psi. They possess a “nictitating membrane,” a clear third eyelid that acts like swimming goggles. The small dots along their jaw (Integumentary Sensory Organs) can detect tiny vibrations in the water, alerting them to prey—or even a thirsty Olive Python!
Saltwater Crocodiles are opportunistic. Hatchlings eat insects and crabs; adults eat fish, wallabies, buffalo, and sharks. They utilize the “death roll”—clamping onto prey and spinning to disorient it.
Despite their name, “Salties” are perfectly adapted to freshwater rivers and billabongs, not just the ocean. They are found across Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland.
Females build mound nests of rotting vegetation. Uniquely, the sex of the hatchlings is determined by nest temperature:
- ~32°C: Produces mostly males.
- Below 30°C or above 33°C: Produces mostly females. The mother guards the nest aggressively, a rare trait in reptiles.
Can crocodiles run fast on land?
They can “gallop” for very short bursts, but they are not endurance runners on land. They are infinitely more dangerous in the water.
Are they endangered?
No. Following a ban on hunting in the 1970s, their numbers have rebounded. Although due to the rising human population the incidents of human crocodile encounters are rising which places continued pressure on crocodiles. In Queensland the Saltwater Crocodile is deemed Vulnerable. It’s important to stay CROCWISE in crocodile habitat.
See a Baby Croc: While we don’t bring the 5-metre giants, you can meet a juvenile crocodile with Melbourne’s Mobile Zoo! Book a school incursion today. It’s the perfect “inspire moment” for students to respect these powerful predators.
Reptile Encounters would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, the people of the Kulin Nation, who have never ceded sovereignty. This always was and always will be Aboriginal land.