This colouration lasts for several years until the crocodiles mature into adults. The ventral surface is white or yellow in colour in saltwater crocodiles of all ages.

The primary behaviour to distinguish the saltwater crocodile from other crocodiles is its tendency to occupy salt water. While crocodilian brains are much smaller than those of mammals (as low as 0.05% of body weight in the saltwater crocodile), saltwater crocodiles are capable of learning difficult tasks with very little conditioning, learning to track the migratory route of their prey as the seasons change, and may possess a deeper communication ability than currently accepted.Like most species in the crocodilians family, saltwater crocodiles are not fastidious in their choice of food, and readily vary their Large animals taken by adult saltwater crocodiles include The hunting methods utilised by saltwater crocodiles are indistinct from any other crocodilian, with the hunting crocodile submerging and quietly swimming over to the prey before pouncing upwards striking suddenly. Males can live with females, but they cannot be kept with other males.One primary distinguishing behavior of saltwater crocodiles is their tendency to live in saltwater habitats. Unregulated hunting during the 20th century caused a dramatic decline in the species throughout its range, with the population in northern Australia reduced by 95% by 1971. Humans exterminated most populations in southeast Asia, save for a few isolated pockets. Females are territorial as well, and will protect their nests from other crocodiles, and anything else that gets too close.The breeding season of this species is during the wet season, when water levels are highest. At their largest, these saltwater crocodiles can grow up to 23 feet long! The foremost need in their care is a large water body to hide in, and a large enclosure to match their immense size. They also differ from other crocodilians in their social behavior. Giant predator + household pet = disaster.In a zoological setting, these crocodiles can thrive when given the proper care. Salties, as they are half-lovingly called, are intimidating creatures. Many other crocodile species will bask in large groups, and even share carcasses, not salties!These creatures are highly territorial and do not tolerate one another’s presence. Both parents will protect the nesting territory from intruders.The indigenous Australians believe that the Saltwater Crocodile was banished from using fresh water because he was filling himself with bad spirits and growing too big. The saltwater crocodile is the largest living reptile and The saltwater crocodile is a large and opportunistic Currently, the saltwater crocodile is considered a The saltwater crocodile has a wide snout compared to most crocodiles.

A large population thrives throughout northern Australia. However, it has a longer The adult saltwater crocodile's broad body contrasts with that of most other lean crocodiles, leading to early unverified assumptions the reptile was an Young saltwater crocodiles are pale yellow in colour with black stripes and spots on their bodies and tails. (September 2013). They have a large, triangular head equipped with teeth that can measure up to 3.5 in.

Below, in descending order starting from the largest, are some examples of large unconfirmed saltwater crocodiles, recorded throughout history. She excavates the nest in response to "yelping" calls from the hatchlings, and even gently rolls eggs in her mouth to assist hatching.

In northern Australia, much of the nesting habitat of the saltwater crocodile is susceptible to trampling by feral water buffalo, although buffalo eradication programs have now reduced this problem considerably. Conversely, on Timor the native people consider saltwater Animals.NET aim to promote interest in nature and animals among children, as well as raise their awareness in conservation and environmental protection.

All photos used are royalty-free, and credits are included in the Alt tag of each image.Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. The years from 1940 to 1970 were the peak of unregulated hunting and may have regionally caused irreparable damage to saltwater crocodile populations.Habitat loss continues to be a major problem for the species.

However, they are simply amazing creatures, and we should respect them as well as fear them. "A preliminary analysis of worldwide crocodilian attacks", pp. Small animals can be kept in smaller areas and graduate to larger habitats as they grow older.Feeding is easy because they will eat just about anything.