Basic Information Scientific name: Crocodylus porosus
Length: 14-17 ft. (Adult, Male)
Mass: 880- 2,200 lbs (Adult, Male)
Lifespan: 70 years
Speed: 15-18 mph (In water)
Length: 14-17 ft. (Adult, Male)
Mass: 880- 2,200 lbs (Adult, Male)
Lifespan: 70 years
Speed: 15-18 mph (In water)
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Saltwater Crocodiles are cold-blooded reptiles, and they are the largest living reptiles. Their copulation and courtship occurs in the water. During their courtship, two crocodiles signal each other through touch and vocalization. They also give chemical signals, called pheromones, like other animals do. When the two crocodiles are ready, the male mounts the back of the female. The animals rotate their tails so that their cloacae are brought into direct contact. Intromission occurs, in which the male crocodile inserts its penis into the female's vagina.
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Female crocodiles lay 40 to 60 eggs and build nests to lay their eggs in. The female crocodile defends the nest with her life as predators are always nearby ready to prey on crocodile eggs. When the baby crocodile is ready to hatch it will chirp from within the egg to let the mother know to dig at the nests to expose the eggs. The baby crocodiles have an "egg tooth" which allows them to break open the egg they are in. Once out, the mother will escort the baby hatchlings to the water and they will prey on small fish, prawns, and crabs. As they grow they will hunt bigger prey. The mother protects the hatchlings for up to seven months, which is when they are big enough to fend for themselves.