Physically dangerous
Precautions Never assume that crocodiles are not present just because they cannot be seen. Observe warning signs and be very careful around tropical creeks, rivers and lagoons.
THEY MAY BE SMALLER BUT... The Freshwater Crocodile inhabits inland waterways and the tidal reaches of some rivers across northern Australia. It is smaller than the Estuarine Crocodile and has a long narrow snout, fine needle-like teeth and a row of four large scales on the neck immediately behind the head. Freshwater Crocodiles are not normally regarded as dangerous but they can cause serious injuries if they do bite. These crocodiles are active during the day, although they mainly hunt at night. They ambush prey at the edges of rivers, creeks and lagoons, or in shallow water, catching insects, crustaceans, fish, frogs, lizards, turtles, bats and birds and sometimes small mammals.
OR IAN M
RIS
the FACTS! FATAL ATTACKS by Estuarine Crocodiles are a rare occurrence in Australia. Victims of non-fatal attacks can be injured, not only by the bite, but also by blows from the tail. In high risk areas, always observe crocodile warning signs (below). On average, there is one fatal attack every two years.
Male Freshwater Crocodiles weigh up to 60 kg and grow more than 2.5 m long. Females weigh up to 30 kg and reach 1.8 m.
STAYING SAFE • Stay alert around waterways and lagoons and away from the water’s edge. • Don’t return to the same place at the water’s edge on a regular basis.
RON & VALERIE TAYLOR
• Don’t assume it’s safe to swim just because there are no warning signs.
CLARE THOMSON
• Don’t clean fish near the water or discard fish scraps in the water. • If you see a crocodile slide mark ( a crocodile moving into the water from a river bank will leave a characteristic mark ), stay well clear of that area. • Avoid places where native animals or cattle drink. • Be particularly careful at night. Right, top to bottom: Freshwater Crocodile; Estuarine Crocodile. Both species have attacked humans, though the Freshwater Crocodile is generally not considered dangerous.
STUDIES HAVE SHOWN that crocodiles are able to convert as much as 50–70% of their food into growth and energy ( humans use only 3–4% ). This means that crocodiles can go for months without eating.
From Steve Parish Publishing’s Amazing Facts: Deadly & Dangerous ~ www.steveparish.com.au