The Nile crocodile resides near rivers, lakes, and swamps throughout Africa. These crocodiles are large lizard-shaped reptiles with long powerful tails. The average Nile crocodile grows to approximately 16 feet, but they can be up to 20 feet long.

Crocodiles can live quite a long time. In the wild, the typical crocodile lives to be 45 years old, but in captivity they can live as long as 80 years.

Nile crocodiles are found in tropical and southern Africa and in Madagascar. They live in rivers, mangrove swamps, and freshwater marshes.

Why Are Nile Crocodiles Endangered?
Nile Crocodiles are vulnerable because various animals such as lions, elephants, leopards, and hippopotamuses hunt them. Humans are their worst enemy because they hunt crocodiles for their skin, which is made into shoes, belts, and bags.

More Endangered Animals
Gorillas
Bengal Tiger
Hawaiian Monk Seal
Giant Panda
American Bison (Buffalo)
Black Rhino

Come back next month to see a brand new endangered animal!