8 Crocodiles You'd Dread Crossing Paths With

August 09, 2023

By Sonakshi Kandhari

Crocodiles, dating back 200 million years like dinosaurs, continue to fascinate us. Standing the test of time, these eight scariest crocodiles can scare the living daylights out of you.

Image source: Flickr

Nile Crocodile 

These crocodiles, apart from camouflaging themselves, swim fast too. They are responsible for 745 deaths a year. They pull their prey into the water, drown them and then it's bon appetit.

Image Source:Wikimedia Commons 

Saltwater Crocodile 

The world's largest reptile, with 66 teeth and a bite force of 16,414 newtons. Each year, this long-tailed crocodile attacks up to 30 people, killing 30% of them.

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Mugger Crocodile 

With their excellent vision, superior smell and agile swimming, it's not long before prey comes within their reach. They are responsible for around 22 attacks a year, of which seven are fatal.

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Black Caiman 

Nocturnal hunter, reaching up to 20 feet, this lethal-looking crocodile only attacks humans in self-defence. It is the largest animal in the Amazon basin.

Image Source; Pxfuel

American Crocodile

Also known as American alligator, it is primarily found in South Florida and Mexico. While not hostile, it can cause significant harm to humans, if provoked.

Image Source; Pxfuel

Gharial 

The long-nosed crocodile, also called the fish-eating crocodile, leisurely roams rivers. It won't target humans aggressively but may be drawn to corpses, a common occurrence in the Ganges.

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Orinoco Crocodile 

America's largest and most elusive predator, found primarily in Colombia and Venezuela. Only 500 of these remain, but its 2009 attack reeks of primal terror and untamed power. Approach cautiously!

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Cuban Crocodile 

An endangered species, this crocodile is found mainly in Cuba. It is comfortable on both land and in water, and it can even leap. Ancient stories tell of this crocodile hunting humans and large mammals.

Image Source:Wikimedia Commons