Original Wild Facts, Reptiles

Wild Fact #234 – World’s Most Dangerous Animal – Saltwater Crocodile

Worlds Largest Reptile - Saltwater Crocodile
Photo from Wikimedia

If you are a reptile lover then you are in a for a real treat today. The Saltwater Crocodile is not only the largest living crocodilian but also the largest reptile on the face of the earth. We will learn exactly how big in a second but first let’s find out where we can find these massive, cold-blooded creatures. Surprisingly this Saltwater Crocodile or “Salty” as the Australians call them can be found living in brackish waters throughout Southeast Asia, eastern India and of course northern Australia. Interestingly enough these deadly predators have been found hanging out far from the shores of their preferred seas. They are able to swim out to the middle of the sea as a result of their excellent swimming capabilities. I guess no place is safe from the Salty.

How Big is the World’s Largest Reptile?

I guess this really is the million dollar question for today’s featured animal. Typically the males will reach an average length of 5 metres (17 feet) and weigh around 450 kilograms (1000 pounds). If you think this is big then you will be ecstatic when you find out that it is not unusual for the Saltwater Crocodile to reach a length of 7 metres (23 feet) with a weight of 1000 kilograms (2200 pounds). I am not sure if you would be as ecstatic to see this massive reptile swimming towards you. Actually this brings us to the second million dollar question of the day.

Saltwater Crocodile
Photo by MartinRe (Wikimedia)

Does the Saltwater Crocodile Eat Humans?

The answer to this question is yes. In fact, many believe that good ol’ Salty is the animal most likely to consume a human… yep, even more likely than the famed Great White Shark. Considering the list of prey items on the Saltwater Crocodile’s menu, I would say they should be the most feared animal on the planet. This gigantic reptile will eat anything it can get its jaws on including kangaroos, monkeys, wild boars, dingos, water buffalo, humans and even sharks. I told you they should be feared.

Unpleasant Ending

Even worse is the method of attack these crocs choose to utilize. If something tasty is hanging out on the shorelines of their home, this giant crocodile will completely explode from the water, grab the unsuspecting and confused prey and bring them into their watery grave. At this point our the crocodile will just hold its lunch underwater until they drown. Definitely not he most pleasant way to go, which is why I think the Saltwater Crocodile should be one of the most feared animals on the planet.

What do you think? Is there a more dangerous animal out there?

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