10 largest crocodiles in the world

Crocodiles are among the most formidable predators on Earth, known for their immense size and strength. These ancient reptiles have fascinated humans for centuries, with some individuals reaching astonishing lengths and weights. This article explores the ten largest crocodiles ever recorded, highlighting their impressive dimensions and the stories behind their captures.

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Sarcosuchus, also known as SuperCroc, was a prehistoric crocodile that lived approximately 112 million years ago. Reaching lengths of up to 40 feet (12 meters) and weighing up to 17,600 pounds (8,000 kilograms), Sarcosuchus was one of the largest crocodyliforms ever discovered. Fossils of this giant were found in the Sahara Desert, providing valuable insights into the ancient ecosystems and the evolution of crocodiles.

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Krys, also known as The Savannah King, was reportedly shot in Queensland, Australia, in 1957. This saltwater crocodile was claimed to measure 28 feet (8.5 meters), although this measurement is disputed. Despite the controversy, Krys remains one of the largest crocodiles ever claimed, and his story has become a legend in Australian history. The photograph of Krys with the hunter has fueled debates about the true size of this massive reptile.

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Lolong was a saltwater crocodile captured in the Philippines in September 2011. Measuring 20 feet 3 inches (6.17 meters) and weighing 2,370 pounds (1,075 kilograms), Lolong was the largest crocodile ever measured. He was captured in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, after reports of attacks on humans and livestock. Lolong lived in captivity until his death in February 2013, drawing significant attention and becoming a symbol of wildlife conservation efforts in the region.

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Dominator is another giant saltwater crocodile from the Adelaide River, Australia, estimated to be 20 feet (6 meters) long and weighing 2,300 pounds (1,043 kilograms). Known for his territorial battles with Brutus, Dominator is a dominant force in the river. His size and aggressive behavior have made him a favorite among tourists and a subject of numerous documentaries and wildlife studies.

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Gustave is a notorious Nile crocodile from Burundi, estimated to be 20-21 feet (6-6.4 meters) long and weighing around 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms). He is infamous for allegedly killing over 300 people along the Ruzizi River and Lake Tanganyika. Despite numerous attempts to capture him, Gustave remains elusive. His size and reputation have made him a subject of fascination and fear, contributing to local folklore and international intrigue.

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Yai is a 19-foot (5.79 meters) crocodile weighing 2,450 pounds (1,111 kilograms) residing at the Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo in Thailand. He is one of the largest crocodiles in captivity and draws large crowds of visitors. Yai’s impressive size and the care he receives at the zoo highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and education efforts in Thailand.

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Bujang Senang was a 19-foot (5.79 meters), 2,500-pound (1,134 kilograms) man-eating crocodile from Malaysia. Known for terrorizing villages in Sarawak, Bujang Senang’s reign of fear ended when he was captured and killed in 1992. His stories continue to live on in local folklore, and his skull is displayed in a museum as a reminder of the dangers posed by these massive reptiles.

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Brutus is an 18-foot (5.5 meters) saltwater crocodile living in the Adelaide River, Australia. Weighing around 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms), Brutus is known for his missing front leg, which he reportedly lost in a fight with a shark. He has become a popular tourist attraction, often seen during river cruises. Brutus’s fierce presence and impressive size make him one of the most well-known crocodiles in Australia.

Image: Courtesy of Andrew Paice

Cassius is a 17-foot (5.48 meters), 2,200-pound (998 kilograms) saltwater crocodile that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest crocodile in captivity. Captured in the Northern Territory of Australia in 1984, Cassius now resides at Marineland Melanesia on Green Island. Despite his age, estimated to be over 110 years, Cassius remains a powerful and awe-inspiring creature, drawing visitors from around the world.

Image: Courtesy of Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat

Gomek was a 17-foot (5.18 meters) saltwater crocodile captured in Papua New Guinea. Weighing 1,900 pounds (862 kilograms), Gomek became a popular exhibit at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in Florida, USA. He lived in captivity for many years, becoming a beloved attraction until his death in 1997. Gomek’s friendly demeanor with his handlers made him a unique and memorable crocodile.

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Currently, there are around 28 living species of crocodilians found throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Researchers have found out that the large modern group of crocodiles, evolved some 200 million years ago. And some 145 million years ago, ancestors of crocodiles and alligators then split each other to become two different creatures.

The smallest crocodile in history is the Cuvier’s dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus), a fascinating species native to northern and central South America. First described by the French zoologist Georges Cuvier in 1807, this diminutive crocodilian typically measures around 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) for males and up to 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) for females. Despite its small size, the Cuvier’s dwarf caiman is well-adapted to its environment, boasting strong body armor and a diet that includes invertebrates, small fish, and amphibians. This species thrives in riverine forests and flooded areas, showcasing remarkable resilience and adaptability in various habitats.

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Crocodiles share heritage with dinosaurs group known as archosaurs. However the modern day crocodiles descended from pre historic alligators such as Deinosuchus. They were low or water dwelling creatures with long snout, strong tail and lots of teeth.

Crocodiles have really thick and scaly skin, which protects their soft bodies and helps them maintain grip on the land. The Keratin made scales prevent water loss. They also act as an armour.

These creatures have powerful jaws with conical teeth and short legs with clawed webbed toes. They have a unique body form that allows its nostrils, eyes and ears to be above surface of water and rest of the body below.

Crocodiles are mostly found in the tropical waters of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the America. They are cold blooded and reptiles and prefer warm climate and water bodies. They are opportunistic predators and eat whatever they get their claws on.



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Crocodile mating season is a fascinating period marked by unique behaviors and environmental cues. Typically occurring during the dry season, when water levels are lower, this time allows males to establish territories more easily and females to find suitable nesting sites. During this season, male crocodiles engage in elaborate displays to attract females, including vocalizations, water slapping, and even blowing bubbles. Once a pair forms, mating usually takes place in the water. Afterward, the female lays her eggs in a carefully constructed nest, often made of vegetation and mud, to ensure the optimal temperature and protection for the developing embryos. This season is crucial for the survival and continuation of crocodile species, showcasing their remarkable adaptability and resilience in the wild.

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Crocodiles are carnivorous reptiles with a diverse diet that varies based on their size, habitat, and availability of prey. They primarily consume fish, birds, and small mammals, but their menu can also include crustaceans, turtles, frogs, and even other reptiles. Larger crocodiles have been known to take down bigger prey such as wildebeest, wild boar, and occasionally even sharks. These opportunistic predators use their powerful jaws and stealthy hunting techniques to ambush their prey, often waiting patiently in the water for the right moment to strike. In captivity, their diet is typically supplemented with meat like chicken, beef, and fish. This varied diet helps crocodiles maintain their strength and play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling the populations of other animals.

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Crocodiles show a behavior called lithophagy, wherein they swallow stones. This helps them to stay underwater for longer period of times, with the stones pushing them down. Stones also help in digestion of difficult foods too.