The Zoo has two Nile crocodiles, one male and one female. Both were hatched in the wild in Africa. They arrived at the Zoo on July 25, 2003.
Viewing Hints
The Zoo's Nile crocodiles can easily be seen basking on land or enjoying the pool in their exhibit.
The largest of the four species of crocodilians in Africa is usually dark green in color. The eyes and nostrils are located on top of the head allowing the animal to detect prey on land as it comes close to the water’s edge. This species of crocodilian is widespread throughout tropical and southern Africa and is known as a man killer in parts of its range.
Behavior
The Nile crocodile spends the majority of its time in the water hunting or waiting at the shoreline to ambush prey that come to drink. They can also be seen on land basking in large groups. Crocodiles are “ectothermic”, meaning that they rely on their environment to main proper body temperatures.
Reproduction
The nesting season is usually November or December. The female will dig a hole in a river bank or sandy river bed. She will deposit between 25-80 eggs. The female will guard the eggs from predators during the 3 month incubation period. The sex of the hatchlings is determined by the temperatures in the nest.
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