Freshwater crocodile facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Freshwater crocodileTemporal range: Early Pleistocene-recent
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Crocodylus
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johnstoni
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The freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni) is a special type of crocodile that lives only in the northern parts of Australia. Unlike its bigger cousin, the dangerous saltwater crocodile, the freshwater crocodile is usually very shy and does not often attack humans. However, it might bite if it feels scared or needs to protect itself. Sometimes, they might even mistake a human for food.
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What Does a Freshwater Crocodile Look Like?
Freshwater crocodiles are medium-sized reptiles. Male crocodiles can grow quite long, reaching about 2.3 to 3 meters (7.5 to 9.8 feet). Females are a bit smaller, usually growing up to 2.1 meters (6.9 feet) long.
When it comes to weight, males typically weigh around 70 kilograms (150 pounds). Some larger males can even weigh 100 kilograms (220 pounds) or more! Females are lighter, usually weighing about 40 kilograms (88 pounds).
These crocodiles are known for being very shy animals. They have a thin, pointed snout, which helps them catch fish. Their teeth are also smaller compared to the much more dangerous saltwater crocodile.
Where Do Freshwater Crocodiles Live?
Freshwater crocodiles are found only in the northern parts of Australia. You can find them in the states of Western Australia and Queensland, as well as the Northern Territory.
These crocodiles live in many different watery places, or habitats, across Australia. These include:
- Freshwater wetlands
- Billabongs (which are still pools of water, often found in dry riverbeds)
- Rivers
- Creeks
An interesting fact is that freshwater crocodiles can live in some places where saltwater crocodiles cannot. This is because they prefer fresh water, while saltwater crocodiles can live in both fresh and salty environments.
Images for kids
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A freshwater crocodile at Australia Zoo
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A close-up of a freshwater crocodile's head
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A freshwater crocodile resting on a log in the sun
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Different views of a freshwater crocodile skull
See also
In Spanish: Cocodrilo de Johnston para niños
