How big do Nile crocodiles get?

Nile crocodiles typically reach 3.5–5 meters in length and weigh 225–750 kg. The largest recorded was over 6 meters and weighed 1,090 kg.

Are Nile crocodiles dangerous to safari-goers?

Crocodiles pose a real danger near water, but safari guides know exactly where it's safe. On boat and canoe safaris, guides maintain safe distances from crocodiles.

When is the best time to see crocodile action?

July–October during the Great Migration river crossings in the Serengeti and Masai Mara — massive crocs ambush wildebeest in spectacular fashion.

How long do crocodiles live?

Nile crocodiles can live 70–100 years in the wild, making them one of the longest-lived reptiles on Earth.

How strong is a crocodile's bite?

A Nile crocodile's bite force is approximately 5,000 PSI — the strongest of any living animal. However, the muscles that open their jaw are so weak that they can be held shut with a rubber band.

🐊Least Concern

Nile Crocodile

Crocodylus niloticus

200 million years of evolution — the ultimate ambush hunter

Lifespan

70–100 years in the wild

Population

~250,000–500,000 in the wild

Size

3.5–5.0 m in length

Top Speed

Up to 35 km/h in water, 14 km/h on land

Diet

Carnivore — fish, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo

Social

Semi-social; hierarchy based on size

Population trend: stable|IUCN: LC|Weight: 225–750 kg (largest recorded: 1,090 kg)

About This Species

Meet the The Ancient Predator

The Nile crocodile is Africa's largest reptile and one of the planet's most successful predators, virtually unchanged for 200 million years. They play a starring role during the Great Migration, ambushing wildebeest at river crossings in the Masai Mara and Serengeti.

💡 Did You Know?

1Crocodiles have the strongest bite force of any living animal — 5,000 PSI
2They can go up to a year without eating
3Mother crocs carry hatchlings to water in their jaws with incredible gentleness
4Their species has survived 200 million years — outliving dinosaurs