|
Unlike their larger relatives, freshwater crocodiles (Crocodylus johnstoni), also known as Johnstone crocodiles, are not usually dangerous to people. They are very common in the Kimberley.
Freshwater crocodiles are often seen basking in reasonable numbers around the perimeter of gorges and rivers, creating an interesting wildlife spectacle for local and worldwide visitors. There are some 21 species of crocodiles and their relatives, but only two species occur in Australia, and both are present in the Kimberley. These primitive reptiles have an ancient lineage and are remnants from the time of the dinosaurs.
Description:
Freshwater crocodiles are grey or greenish-brown above, with heavily mottled flanks. In contrast to the saltwater variety, this species has quite long, smooth and slender snouts. However, they are often difficult to distinguish when partially submerged. They may reach up to three metres long.
Distribution:
Freshwater crocodiles are widespread across the northern Australia, including the Kimberley, Northern Territory and Queensland. They live largely in freshwater rivers, gorges and billabongs.
Life history:
These reptiles are active by day but most hunting is done at night, when they search for fish, frogs and other small animals. They breed between October and November, at the end of the dry season, laying about 20 eggs in nests excavated in sandbanks. As with the saltwater crocodile, the sex of the young is determined by nest temperature. A steady temperature of 32 degrees Celcius results in the birth of males, but if the temperature fluctuates much above and below this, females result.
Precautions:
Never trail arms and legs from a boat in areas where freshwater crocodiles are known to live. A freshwater crocodile could easily mistake a small portion of your body for a fish or small animal. Do not approach them too closely, as a cornered freshwater crocodile will defend itself by biting or lashing with the long tail.
The Bush Book Hazardous Animals of North-Western Australia has more information on hazardous animals in the Kimberley.
|
Page Top