灣鱷

Saltwater crocodile 化石時期：
Saltwater crocodile at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, 佛罗里达州
保护状况
无危 （IUCN 2.3）
科學分類
界： 动物界 Animalia 門： 脊索动物门 Chordata 綱： 蜥形綱 Sauropsida 目： 鳄目 Crocodylia 科： 鱷科 Crocodylidae 屬： 鱷屬 Crocodylus 種： C. porosus
二名法
Crocodylus porosus Schneider, 1801
Range of the saltwater crocodile in black

The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), also known as the estuarine crocodile, Indo-Pacific crocodile, marine crocodile, sea crocodile or informally as saltie, is the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest riparian 捕食 in the world. Males of this species can reach sizes up to 7.0米（23.0英尺） in length. However, an adult male saltwater crocodile rarely reaches or exceeds a size of 6米（19.7英尺） weighing 1,000至1,200公斤（2,200—2,600磅）. Females are much smaller and often do not surpass 3米（9.8英尺）.

As its name implies, this species of crocodile can live in marine environments, but usually resides in saline and brackish mangrove swamps, 河口, 三角洲s, 潟湖s, and lower stretches of 河流s. They have the broadest Range (biology) of any modern crocodile, ranging from the eastern coast of India throughout most of Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Historically, the range covered Southern China as well.

The saltwater crocodile is a large and opportunistic 超級食肉動物 apex predator. Most prey are ambush predator and then drowned or swallowed whole. It is capable of prevailing over almost any animal that enters its territory, including other 顶级掠食者 such as 鲨鱼s, varieties of 淡水鱼 and 海水魚 including pelagic fish species, 无脊椎动物s such as 甲壳亚门s, various 爬行动物s, 鸟s and 哺乳动物s, including Crocodile attack. Due to their size, aggression and distribution, saltwater crocodiles are regarded as the most dangerous Extant taxon 鳄目n to humans, alongside the 尼羅鱷.

Taxonomy and evolution

Incomplete fossil records make it difficult to accurately trace the emergence of the species. The genome was fully sequenced in 2007. The earliest fossil evidence of the species dates to around 4.0–4.5 million years ago and no subspecies are known. Scientists estimate that C. porosus is an ancient species that could have diverged from 12 to 6 million years ago. Genetic research has unsurprisingly indicated that the saltwater crocodile is related relatively closely to other living species of Asian crocodile, although some ambiguity exists over what assemblage it could be considered part of based on variable genetic results. Other relatively broad-snouted species such as mugger (C. palustris) and 暹羅鱷s (C. siamensis) seem to be the most likely candidates to bear the closest relation among living species.

Possible subspecies and status as a species complex

Currently, most sources state that the saltwater crocodile does not have subspecies. However, based largely on morphological variability, some have claimed that not only are there subspecies but that C. porosus actually houses a species complex. In 1844, S. Müller and H. Schlegel attempted to describe crocodiles from 爪哇岛 and 婆罗洲 as a new species which they named C. raninus, subsequently given the informal common names of the Indonesian crocodile or Bornean crocodile. According to Ross (1992), specimens of C. raninus can reliably be distinguished both from Siamese crocodiles and true saltwater crocodiles on the basis of the number ventral scales and on the presence of four postoccipital scutes which are often absent in true saltwater crocodiles. Another attempt to derive a species came from Australia, Wells & Wellington (1985), and was based upon large-bodied, relatively large-headed and short-tailed crocodiles from Australia. The type specimen reported for this so-called species was a crocodile nicknamed "Sweetheart" that was inadvertently killed in 1979 (drowned after being overly-anesthetized in an attempt to relocate it after it had taken to attacking boats). However, this "species", C. pethericki, has later been largely considered as a misinterpretation of the physiological changes undergone by very large male crocodiles. However, Wells and Wellington's assertion that the Australian saltwater crocodiles may at least be distinctive enough from northern Asian saltwater crocodiles to warrant subspecies status, as could raninus from other Asian saltwater crocodiles, has been considered to possibly bear validity.

Description

Saltwater crocodile skull from Zoological Museum of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia. Note the considerably more slender skull of a 恆河鱷 in the background.

Head of a saltwater crocodile

The saltwater crocodile has a wide snout compared to most crocodiles. However, it has a longer snout than the 沼澤鱷; its length is twice its width at the base. The saltwater crocodile has fewer armour plates on its neck than other crocodilians. On this species, a pair of ridges runs from the eyes along the centre of the snout. The scales are oval in shape and the scutes are either small compared to other species or commonly are entirely absent. In addition, an obvious gap is also present between the cervical and dorsal shields, and small, triangular scutes are present between the posterior edges of the large, transversely arranged scutes in the dorsal shield. The relative lack of scutes is considered an asset useful to distinguish saltwater crocodiles in captivity or in illicit leather trading, as well as in the few areas in the field where sub-adult or younger saltwater crocodiles may need to be distinguished from other crocodiles.

The adult saltwater crocodile's broad body contrasts with that of most other lean crocodiles, leading to early unverified assumptions the reptile was an 短吻鱷. The head is very large. The largest skull size that could be scientifically verified was for a specimen in the 国家自然历史博物馆 (法国) sourced to 柬埔寨: the skull length for this specimen was 76 cm（30英寸） (female skull lengths of over 45 cm（18英寸） are exceptional), with a mandibular length of 98.3 cm（38.7英寸） and a maximum width across the skull (near the base) of 48 cm（19英寸）. The length of the specimen this came from is not known but based on skull-to-total-length ratios for very large saltwater crocodiles its length was presumably somewhere in the 7米（23英尺0英寸） range. Although it is the largest overall living crocodilian and reptile, other crocodilians may have a proportionately longer skull, for example the 恆河鱷 (Gavialis gangeticus) and the 馬來長吻鱷 (Tomistoma schlegelii). Skull lengths in the latter have been verified up to 84 cm（33英寸） (the largest crocodilian skull verified for a living species), although both of these thin-snouted species have less massive skulls and considerably less massive bodies than the saltwater crocodile. The teeth are also long, with the largest teeth (the fourth tooth from the front on the lower jaw) having been measured at up to 9 cm（3.5英寸） in length. If detached from the body, the head of a very large male crocodile can reportedly weigh over 200公斤（440磅） alone, including the large muscles and tendons at the base of the skull that lend the crocodile its massive biting strength.

Young saltwater crocodiles are pale yellow in colour with black stripes and spots on their bodies and tails. This colouration lasts for several years until the crocodiles mature into adults. The colour as an adult is much darker greenish-drab, with a few lighter tan or grey areas sometimes apparent. Several colour variations are known and some adults may retain fairly pale skin, whereas others may be so dark as to appear blackish. The ventral surface is white or yellow in colour on saltwater crocodiles of all ages. Stripes are present on the lower sides of their bodies, but do not extend onto their bellies. Their tails are grey with dark bands.

Size

Sweetheart (crocodile), a large crocodile, at about 5.1米（16英尺9英寸） and scaled to weigh 816公斤（1,799磅）. At one point, Sweetheart led some authors to consider a separate Australian species of saltwater crocodile (C. pethericki).

Saltwater crocodiles are the largest extant riparian predators in the world. However, they start life fairly small. Newly hatched saltwater crocodiles measure about 28 cm（11英寸） long and weigh an average of 71 g（2.5 oz）. Males reach sexual maturity around 3.3米（10英尺10英寸） at around 16 years of age, while females reach sexual maturity at 2.1米（6英尺11英寸） and 12–14 years of age. These sizes and ages are almost identical to those at average sexual maturity in 尼羅鱷s, despite that average adult male saltwater crocodiles are considerably larger than average adult male Nile crocodiles. The weight of a crocodile increases approximately cubically as length increases (see square-cube law). This explains why individuals at 6米（19英尺8英寸） can weigh more than twice that of individuals at 5米（16英尺）. In crocodiles, linear growth eventually decreases and they start getting bulkier at a certain point. Dominant males also tend to outweigh others, as they maintain prime 领域 (动物) with access to better, more abundant 捕食.

Male size: An adult male saltwater crocodile, from young adults to older individuals, ranges 3.5至6米（11英尺6英寸至19英尺8英寸） in length, weighing 200至1,000公斤（440—2,200磅）. On average, adult males range 4.3至4.9米（14英尺1英寸至16英尺1英寸） in length and weigh 408至522公斤（899—1,151磅）. However average size largely depends on the location, habitat, and human interactions, thus changes from one study to another, when figures of each study are viewed separately. In one case, Webb and Manolis (1989) attributed the average weight of adult males in Australian tidal rivers as only 240至350公斤（530至770磅） at lengths of 4至4.5米（13英尺1英寸至14英尺9英寸） during the 1980s, possibly representing a reduced body mass due to the species being in recovery after decades of overhunting at that stage, as males this size would typically weigh about 100公斤（220磅） heavier. Rarely very large, aged males can exceed 6米（19英尺8英寸） in length and weigh over 1,000公斤（2,200磅）.

The largest confirmed saltwater crocodile on record drowned in a 渔网 in 巴布亚新几内亚 in 1979, its dried skin plus head measured 6.2米（20英尺4英寸） long and it was estimated to have been 6.3米（20英尺8英寸） when accounting for shrinkage and a missing tail tip. However, according to evidence, in the form of skulls coming from some of the largest crocodiles ever shot, the maximum possible size attained by the largest members of this species is considered to be 7米（23英尺0英寸）. A governmental study from Australia accepts that the very largest members of the species are likely to measure 6至7米（19英尺8英寸至23英尺0英寸） in length and weigh 900至1,500公斤（2,000至3,300磅）. Furthermore, a research paper on the morphology and physiology of crocodilians by the same organisation estimates that saltwater crocodiles reaching sizes of 7米（23英尺0英寸） would weigh around 2,000公斤（4,400磅）. Due to extensive 偷獵 during the 20th century, such individuals are extremely rare today in most areas, as it takes a long time for the crocodiles to attain those sizes. Also, a possible earlier presence of particular 基因s may have led to such large-sized saltwater crocodiles, genes that were ultimately lost from the overall 基因庫 due to extensive hide and trophy hunting in the past. However, with recent restoration of saltwater crocodile habitat and reduced 偷獵, the number of large crocodiles is increasing, especially in Bhitarkanika National Park. This species is the only extant crocodilian to regularly reach or exceed 5.2米（17英尺1英寸）. A large male from Philippines, named 落龍, was the largest saltwater crocodile ever caught and placed in captivity. He was 20 ft 3 in (6.17 m), and weighed 2,370 lbs (1,075 kg). Believed to have eaten two villagers, Lolong was captured on 3 September 2011, and died in captivity on 10 February 2013.

Female size: Adult females typically measure from 2.7至3.1米（8英尺10英寸至10英尺2英寸） in total length and weigh 76至103公斤（168至227磅）. Large mature females can reach 3.4米（11英尺2英寸） and can weigh up to 120至200公斤（260至440磅）. The largest female on record measured about 4.3米（14英尺1英寸） in total length. Female are thus similar in size to other species of large crocodiles and average slightly smaller than females of some other species, at least the 尼羅鱷. The saltwater crocodile has the greatest size sexual dimorphism, by far, of any extant crocodilian, as males average about 4 to 5 times as massive as adult females and can sometimes measure twice her total length. The reason for the male skewered dimorphism in this species is not definitively known but might be correlated with sex-specific territoriality and the need for adult male saltwater crocodiles to monopolize large stretches of habitat. Due to the extreme sexual dimorphism of the species as contrasted with the more modest size dimorphism of other species, the average length of the species is only slightly more than some other extant crocodilians at 3.8—4米（12英尺6英寸—13英尺1英寸）.

Distribution and habitat

Saltwater crocodile jumping up at Adelaide River

Video of a jumping crocodile at Adelaide River

Saltwater crocodile sunning itself

Estuarine crocodile tracks in 东帝汶

Large saltwater crocodile in park

The saltwater crocodile is one of the three crocodilians found in India, the other two being the more regionally widespread, smaller 沼澤鱷 and the narrow-snouted, fish-eating 恆河鱷. Apart from the eastern coast of India, the saltwater crocodile is extremely rare on the Indian subcontinent. A large population is present within the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary of Odisha and they are known to be present in smaller numbers throughout the Indian and Bangladeshi portions of the 蘇達班. The saltwater crocodile also persists in bordering 孟加拉国 as does the mugger and gharial. Populations are also present within the mangrove forests and other coastal areas of the 安达曼-尼科巴群岛 in India. Saltwater crocodiles were once present throughout most of the island of 斯里蘭卡, but remain mostly within protected areas such as 雅拉國家公園, which also has a large population of mugger crocodiles.

In northern Australia (which includes the northernmost parts of the 北領地, Western Australia, and 昆士蘭州), the saltwater crocodile is thriving, particularly in the multiple river systems near 达尔文 (澳大利亚) such as the Adelaide, Mary, and Daly Rivers, along with their adjacent billabongs and 河口. The saltwater crocodile population in Australia is estimated at 100,000 to 200,000 adults. In Australia, the species coexists with the smaller, narrow-snouted Johnston's or freshwater crocodile (C. johnstoni). Their range extends from 布鲁姆 (西澳大利亚) in Western Australia through the entire Northern Territory coast all the way south to 洛坎普頓 in Queensland. The Alligator Rivers in the 阿纳姆地 region are misnamed due to the resemblance of the saltwater crocodile to alligators as compared to 澳洲淡水鱷s, which also inhabit the Northern Territory. In 新幾內亞, they are also common, existing within the coastal reaches of virtually every river system in the country, such as the 弗萊河, along with all estuaries and mangroves, where they overlap in range but rarely in actuality or habitat with the rarer, less aggressive 新畿內亞鱷 (C. novaeguineae). They are also present in varying numbers throughout the 俾斯麦群岛, the 卡伊群島, the 阿魯群島, the 摩鹿加群岛 and many other islands within the region, including 帝汶, and most islands within the 托雷斯海峡.

The saltwater crocodile was historically known to be widespread throughout Southeast Asia, but is now extinct throughout much of this range. This species has not been reported in the wild for decades in most of 中南半島 and is extinct in 泰国, 老挝, 越南, and possibly 柬埔寨. The status of this species is critical within much of 缅甸, but a stable population of many large adults is present in the Irrawaddy Delta. Probably, the only country in Indochina still harbouring wild populations of this species is Myanmar. Although saltwater crocodiles were once very common in the 湄公河三角洲 (from where they disappeared in the 1980s) and other river systems, the future of this species in 中南半島 is now looking grim. However, it is also the least likely of crocodilians to become globally extinct due to its wide distribution and almost precolonial population sizes in Northern Australia and 新幾內亞.

The saltwater crocodile has been long extinct in China, where it inhabited the southern coastal areas from 福建省 province in the north to the border of Vietnam. References to large crocodiles that preyed on both humans and livestock appeared during the Han and Song Dynasties, where it occurred in the lower 珠江 near present-day Hong Kong and 澳門, the 韩江, the 闽江 in the north, portions of coastal 广西壮族自治区 province and 海南省. The presence of crocodiles in Fujian province represent the northernmost distribution of the species.

The population is sporadic in 印度尼西亚 the 菲律宾 and 马来西亚, with some areas harbouring large populations (婆罗洲 and 蘇門答臘, for example) and others with very small, at-risk populations (e.g., 马来西亚半岛). Despite the close proximity to the crocodile hotbed of northern Australia, crocodiles no longer exist in 巴厘岛. This species is also reportedly extinct on 龙目岛, 科莫多島, and most of 爪哇岛. In the southern 马来半岛 as well as 婆罗洲, salwater crocodiles may co-exist with the relatively narrow-snouted 馬來長吻鱷 (as well as on 蘇門答臘) and the closely related but usually smaller 暹羅鱷 (as well as in 爪哇岛). A small population may remain within 乌戎库隆国家公园 in western Java. The saltwater crocodile is also present in very limited parts of the South 太平洋, with an average population in the 所罗门群岛, a very small and soon-to-be-extinct population in 瓦努阿图 (where the population officially stands at only three) and a decent but at-risk population (which may be rebounding) in 帛琉. They once ranged as far west as the east coast of Africa to the 塞舌尔. These crocodiles were once believed to be a population of 尼羅鱷s, but they were later proven to be C. porosus.

On a beach in 达尔文 (澳大利亚), Australia

The saltwater crocodile has been extirpated from much of its former range within the 菲律宾 and currently populations remain in only a few scattered locations. On the island of 棉兰老岛 the species is present within the Ligawasan Marsh and adjacent waterways in the southwest of the island and also within the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in the eastern portion of the island, where in September 2011 a 20.24 foot/6.17 meter saltwater crocodile, the largest reliably measured, was captured by locals following two fatal attacks. This species is also reported to be found within the mangroves of Languyan Island of the Tawi-Tawi province southwest of Mindanao and within the mangroves of Del Carmen municipality on Siargao Island northeast of Mindanao. On Luzon Island the species has been reported from three areas in the northeast: the Blos River of barangay Reina Mercedes, the Divilacan mangroves of barangay Dimasalansan and the Palanan River estuary of barangay Culasi. On the island of Palawan the species appears to remain within only the southern portion of the country and in recent years, attacks on humans have occurred within the Rio Tuba area near Bataraza on the southeast coast and from near Rizal on the southeastern coast. The species is also reported to be present within the islands of the Balabac Strait between the island of Palawan and the Malaysian Borneo state of Sabah. The status of the species within Naujan Lake on the island of Mindoro is unclear; crocodile eye-shines have been spotted in recent years and these are believed to belong to the saltwater crocodile, but it is unknown whether a viable population remains.

Because of its tendency to travel very long distances at sea, individual saltwater crocodiles have been known to appear occasionally in areas far away from their general range. Vagrant individuals have historically been reported on 新喀里多尼亞, 斐濟, and in Asian waters possibly swam with 黑潮, reaching such as at 硫磺岛, 八丈島, 奄美大島, 西表島 (residences by several individuals along Urauchi River from 幕末 to 明治 until being hunted by locals were suggested), pelagic waters off 志摩市, 三浦半島, and even in the relatively frigid 日本海 (thousands of miles from their native territory.) In late 2008-early 2009, a handful of wild saltwater crocodiles were verified to be living within the river systems of 弗雷澤島, hundreds of kilometres from, and in much cooler water than, their normal Queensland range. These crocodiles did indeed migrate south to the island from northern Queensland during the warmer 雨季 and presumably returned to the north upon the seasonal temperature drop. Despite the surprise and shock within the Fraser Island public, this is apparently not new behaviour, and in the distant past, wild crocodiles had been reported appearing occasionally as far south as 布里斯班 during the warmer wet season.

Saltwater crocodiles generally spend the tropical wet season in freshwater swamps and rivers, moving downstream to estuaries in the dry season, and sometimes travelling far out to sea. Crocodiles compete fiercely with each other for territory, with dominant males in particular occupying the most eligible stretches of freshwater creeks and streams. Junior crocodiles are thus forced into the more marginal river systems and sometimes into the ocean. This explains the large distribution of the animal (ranging from the east coast of India to northern Australia), as well as its being found in the odd places on occasion (such as the Sea of Japan). Like all crocodiles, they can survive for prolonged periods in only warm temperatures, and crocodiles seasonally vacate parts of Australia if cold spells hit.

Biology and behaviour

A saltwater crocodile off Maconacon, Isabela, 伊莎貝拉省 in the 菲律宾

The primary behaviour to distinguish the saltwater crocodile from other crocodiles is its tendency to occupy salt water. Though other crocodiles also have 鹽腺s that enable them to survive in saltwater, a trait which alligators do not possess, most other species do not venture out to sea except during extreme conditions. The only other species to display regular seagoing behaviour is the 美洲鱷 (C. acutus), but the American version is still not considered to be as marine-prone as the saltwater crocodile. As its alternate name "sea-going crocodile" implies, this species travels between areas separated by sea, or simply relies on the relative ease of travelling through water in order to circumvent long distances on the same land mass, such as Australia. In a similar fashion to 鸟类迁徙s using thermal columns, saltwater crocodiles use 洋流s to travel long distances. In a study, 20 crocodiles were tagged with Animal migration trackings; 8 of these crocodiles ventured out into 遠洋帶, in which one of them travelled 590 km（370 mi） along the coast – from the North Kennedy River on eastern coast of Far North Queensland, around 约克角半岛, to the west coast in the 卡奔塔利亞灣 – in 25 days. Another specimen, a 4.84米（15英尺11英寸）-long male, travelled 411 km（255 mi） in 20 days. Without having to move around much, sometimes simply by floating, the current-riding behaviour allows for the conservation of energy. They will even interrupt their travels, residing in sheltered bays for a few days, when the current is against the desired direction of travel, until the current changes direction. Saltwater crocodiles also travel up and down in 水系s, periodically.

An adult saltwater crocodile swimming through a swamp.

While most crocodilians are social animals sharing basking spots and food, saltwater crocodiles are more 领域 (动物) and are less tolerant of their own kind; adult males will share territory with females, but drive off rival males. Saltwater crocodiles mate in the wet season, laying 卵s in a nest consisting of a mound of mud and vegetation. The female guards the 巢 and hatchlings from predators.

Generally very lethargy, a trait which helps it survive months at a time without food, the saltwater crocodile will usually loiter in the water or bask in the sun during much of the day, preferring to hunt at night. A study of seasonal saltwater crocodile behaviour in Australia indicated that they are more active and more likely to spend time in the water during the Australian summer; conversely, they are less active and spend relatively more time basking in the sun during the winter. Saltwater crocodiles, however, are among the most active of all crocodilians, spending more time cruising and active, especially in water. They are much less Terrestrial animal than most species of crocodiles, spending less time on land except for 體溫調節. At times, they tend to spend weeks at sea in search of land and in some cases, barnacles have been observed growing on crocodile scales, indicative of the long periods they spend at sea.

Saltwater crocodile with a GPS-based Animal migration tracking attached to its head for tracking

Despite their relative lethargy, saltwater crocodiles are agile predators and display surprising agility and speed when necessary, usually during strikes at prey. They are capable of explosive bursts of speed when launching an attack from the water. They can also swim at 15至18 mph（24至29 km/h） in short bursts, around three times as fast as the fastest human swimmers, but when cruising, they usually go at 2至3 mph（3.2至4.8 km/h）. However, stories of crocodiles being faster than a race horse for short distances across land are little more than urban legend. At the water's edge, however, where they can combine propulsion from both feet and tail, their speed can be explosive.

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.

Hunting and diet

Feeding young adult in captivity, Western Australia

Like most species in the crocodilians family, saltwater crocodiles are not fastidious in their choice of food, and readily vary their 捕食 selection according to availability, nor are they voracious, as they are able to survive on relatively little food for a prolonged period. Because of their size and distribution, saltwater crocodiles hunt the broadest range of prey species of any modern crocodilian. The diet of hatchling, juvenile and subadult saltwater crocodiles has been subject to extensively greater scientific study than that of fully-grown crocodiles, in large part due to the aggression, territoriality and size of adults which make them difficult for biologists to handle without significant risk to safety, for both humans and the crocodiles themselves; the main method used for capturing adult saltwater crocodiles is a huge pole with large hooks meant for shark capture which restrict the crocodile's jaws but can cause damage to their snouts and even this is unproven to allow successful capture for crocodiles in excess of 4米（13英尺1英寸）. While for example 20th century biological studies rigorously cataloged the stomach contents of "sacrificed" adult 尼羅鱷s in 非洲, few such studies were done on behalf of saltwater crocodiles despite the plethora that were slaughtered due to the leather trade during that time period. Therefore, the diet of adults is more likely to be based on reliable eye-witness accounts. Hatchlings are restricted to feeding on smaller animals, such as small fish, frogs, insects and small aquatic 无脊椎动物s. In addition to these prey, juveniles also take a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish, various 两栖动物s, 甲壳亚门s, 软体动物s, such as large 腹足纲s and 头足纲s, birds, small to medium-sized 哺乳动物s, and other reptiles, such as snakes and 蜥蜴s. When crocodiles obtain a length of more than 1.2米（3.9英尺）, the significance of small invertebrate prey fades in favor of small vertebrates including fish and smaller mammals and birds. The larger the animal grows, the greater the variety of its diet, although relatively small 捕食 are taken throughout its lifetime.

Among crustacean prey, large 锯缘青蟹s of the genus 青蟹屬 are frequently consumed, especially in mangrove habitats. Ground-living birds, such as the 鸸鹋 (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and different kinds of water birds, especially the 鵲鵝 (Anseranas semipalmata), are the most commonly preyed upon birds, due to the increased chance of encounter. Even swift-flying birds and 蝙蝠s may be snatched if close to the surface of water, as well as 涉禽s while these are patrolling the shore looking for food, even down to the size of a 矶鹬 (Actitis hypoleucos). Mammalian prey of juveniles and subadults are usually as large as the smaller species of 有蹄類s, such as the greater mouse-deer (Tragulus napu) and hog deer (Hyelaphus porcinus). Various 哺乳动物 species including monkeys (i.e. crab-eating macaques (Macaca fascicularis), 食蟹獼猴s (M. fascicularis) & 長鼻猴s (Nasalis larvatus),), 长臂猿s, 小袋鼠, 獴科, 麝貓s, 胡狼s (Canis ssp.), turtles, 狐蝠屬es (Pteropus ssp.), 兔属s (Lepus ssp.), 啮齿目s, badgers, 水獺s, 漁貓s (Prionailurus viverrinus), 印度穿山甲 and 鼷鹿科s are readily taken when encountered. A rare incidence of an adult, 2.6 m Saltwater Crocodile preying on an Indian Porcupine (Hystrix indica) was reported from Sri Lanka. Unlike fish, crabs and aquatic creatures, mammals and birds are usually found only sporadically in or next to water so crocodiles seem to search for places where such prey may be concentrated, i.e. the water under a tree holding a 狐蝠屬 colony or spots where herds of water buffaloes feed, in order to capture small animals disturbed by the buffalo or (if a large adult crocodile is hunting) weaker members of the buffalo herd.

Studies have shown that unlike 澳洲淡水鱷s (which can easily die from eating poisonous toads), saltwater crocodiles are partially resistant to 海蟾蜍 (Rhinella marina) toxins and can consume them but in only small quantities and not enough to provide effective natural control for this virulent introduced pest. Large crocodiles, even the oldest males, do not ignore small species, especially those without developed escape abilities, when the opportunity arises. On the other hand, sub-adult saltwater crocodiles weighing only 8.7至15.8公斤（19至35磅） (and measuring 1.36至1.79米（4英尺6英寸至5英尺10英寸）) have been recorded killing and eating 家山羊s (Capra aegagrus hircus) weighing 50 to 92% of their own body mass in 奥里萨邦, so are capable of attacking large prey from an early age. It was found the diet of specimens in juvenile to subadult range, since they feed on any animals up to their own size practically no matter how small, was more diverse than that of adults which often ignored all prey below a certain size limit.

C. porosus tearing apart a pig carcass for consumption

Large animals taken by adult crocodiles include 水鹿 (Rusa unicolor), 野豬 (Sus scrofa), 馬來貘s (Tapirus indicus), 袋鼠s, humans, 猩猩屬s (Pongo ssp.), 澳洲野犬s (Canis lupus dingo), 虎s (Panthera tigris), and large bovines, such as 爪哇野牛 (Bos javanicus), 水牛 (Bubalus arnee), and 印度野牛 (Bos gaurus). However, larger animals are taken only sporadically due to the fact only large males typically attack very large prey and large ungulates and other sizeable wild mammals are only sparsely distributed in this species' range, outside of a few key areas such as the 蘇達班. Off-setting this, 家山羊s, 水牛 and 野豬/猪属s have been introduced to many of the areas occupied by saltwater crocodiles and returned to feral states to varying degrees and thus can amply support large crocodiles. Any type of 家畜, such as 鸡 (Gallus gallus domesticus), 綿羊 (Ovis aries), pigs, 马s (Equus ferus caballus) and 家牛 (Bos primigenius taurus), and domesticated animals/pets may be eaten if given the opportunity. As a seagoing species, the saltwater crocodile also preys on a variety of saltwater 硬骨魚 and other marine animals, including sea snakes, 海龟s, 海鳥s, 儒艮s (Dugong dugon), 鳐总目s (including large 锯鳐科), and small 鲨鱼s. Most witnessed acts of predation on marine animals have occurred in coastal waters or within sight of land, with female sea turtles and their babies caught during mating season when the turtles are closer to shore and bull sharks being the only largish shark with a strong propensity to patrol brackish and fresh waters. However, there is evidence that saltwater crocodiles do hunt while out in the open seas, based upon the remains of pelagic fishes that dwell only miles away from land being found in their stomachs.

The hunting methods utilized 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. Unlike some other crocodilians, such as 短吻鱷s and even 尼羅鱷s, they are not known to have hunted on dry land. Young saltwater crocodiles are capable of breaching their entire body into the air in a single upward motion while hunting prey that may be perched on low hanging branches. While hunting 普通獼猴s, crocodiles have been seen to knock the monkeys off a bank by knocking them with their tail, forcing the macaque into water for easy consumption. However, whether tail use in hunting is intentional or just an accidental benefit is not definitely clear. As with other crocodilians, their sharp, peg-like teeth are well-suited to seize and tightly grip prey, but not designed to cutting flesh. Small prey are simply swallowed whole, while larger animals are forcibly dragged into deep water and 遇溺 or crushed. Large prey is then torn into manageable pieces by "death rolling" (the spinning of the crocodile to twist off hunks of meat) or by sudden jerks of the head. Occasionally, food items will be stored for later consumption once a crocodile eats its fill, although this can lead to scavenging by interlopers such as monitor lizards.

Bite

Regression of mean body mass and bite force of C. porosus

Saltwater crocodiles, even adults, can breach out of the water in upwards direction to capture food, although are most often seen to do so when coerced by bait, as seen here

Saltwater crocodiles have the strongest bite of any animal today. A 4.59米（15.1英尺）-long saltwater crocodile has been confirmed as having the highest bite ever recorded for an animal in a laboratory setting, with a bite force value of 16,414 N（1,673.8 kgf） (surpassing the previous record of 13,172 N（1,343.2 kgf） made by an 美國短吻鱷 (Alligator mississippinesis)). Based on the regression of mean body mass and mean bite force, the bite forces of multiple crocodile species, 1,308公斤（2,884磅） individuals were estimated at 27,531 N（2,807.4 kgf） to 34,424 N（3,510.3 kgf）. The extraordinary bite of crocodilians is a result of their 解剖学. The space for the jaw muscle in the 颅骨 is very large, which is easily visible from the outside as a bulge at each side. The nature of the 肌肉 is extremely stiff, almost as hard as bone to the touch, such that it can appear to be the continuum of the skull. Another trait is that most of the muscle in a crocodile's jaw is arranged for clamping down. Despite the strong muscles to close the jaw, crocodiles have extremely small and weak muscles to open the jaw. The jaws of a crocodile can be securely shut with several layers of 布膠帶.

Reproduction

Saltwater crocodiles go through numerous physiological changes as they mature. Pictured here is a hatchling age or baby crocodile.

Seen here is a juvenile crocodile, which grows considerably in length over several years but is easily distinguished by slender build and size.

A saltwater crocodile in the subadult age range at Gembira Loka Zoo, similar but not as robust and relatively small-headed compared to adults.

Saltwater crocodiles mate in the wet season, when water levels are at their highest. In Australia, the male and female engage in courtship in September and October, and the female lays eggs between November and March. It is possible the rising temperatures of the wet season provoke reproductive behaviour in this species. While crocodilians generally nest every year, there have been several recorded cases of female saltwater crocodiles nesting only every other year and also records of a female attempting to produce two broods in a single wet season. The female selects the nesting site, and both parents will defend the nesting territory, which is typically a stretch of shore along tidal rivers or freshwater areas, especially swamps. Nests are often in a surprisingly exposed location, often in mud with little to no vegetation around, and thus limited protection from the sun and wind. The nest is a mound of mud and vegetation, usually measuring 175 cm（69英寸） long and 53 cm（21英寸） high, with an entrance averaging 160 cm（63英寸） in diameter. Some nests in unlikely habitats have occurred, such as rocky rubble or in a damp low-grass field. The female crocodile usually scratches a layer of leaves and other debris around the nest entrance and this covering is reported to produce an "astonishing" amount of warmth for the eggs (coincidentally these nesting habits are similar to those of the birds known as 塚雉s that nest in upland areas of the same 澳大拉西亞n regions where saltwater crocodiles are found).

The female typically lays from 40 to 60 eggs, but some clutches have included up to 90. The eggs measure on average 8乘5 cm（3.1乘2.0英寸） and weigh 113 g（4.0 oz） on average in Australia and 121 g（4.3 oz） in 印度. These are relatively small, as the average female saltwater crocodile weighs around five times as much as a freshwater crocodile, but lays eggs that are only about 20% larger in measurement and 40% heavier than those of the smaller species. The average weight of a new hatchling in Australia is reportedly 69.4 g（2.45 oz）. Although the female guards the nest for 80 to 98 days (in extreme high and low cases from 75 to 106 days), the loss of eggs is often high due to flooding and occasionally to predation. As in all crocodilians, the sex of the hatchlings is determined by temperature. At 28–30 degrees all hatchlings will be female, at 30–32 degrees 86% of hatchlings are male, and at 33 or more degrees predominantly female (84%). In Australia, goannas (Varanus giganteus) commonly eat freshwater crocodile eggs (feeding on up to 95% of the clutch if discovered), but are relatively unlikely to eat saltwater crocodile eggs due to the vigilance of the imposing mother, with about 25% of the eggs being lost to goannas (less than half as many Nile crocodile eggs are estimated to be eaten by monitors in Africa). A majority of the loss of eggs of saltwater crocodiles occurs due to flooding of the nest hole.

Wild adult female saltwater crocodile.

As in all crocodilian species, the female saltwater crocodile exhibits a remarkable level of maternal care for a reptile. She excavates the nest in response to "yelping" calls from the hatchlings, and even gently rolls eggs in her mouth to assist hatching. The female will then carry the hatchlings to water in her mouth (as 尼羅鱷 and 美國短吻鱷 females have been observed doing when their eggs hatch) and remains with the young for several months. Despite her diligence, losses of baby crocodiles are heavy due to various predators and unrelated crocodiles of their own species. Only approximately 1% of the hatchlings will survive to adulthood. By crocodilian standards, saltwater crocodile hatchlings are exceptionally aggressive to one another and will often fight almost immediately after being transported to water by their mother. The young naturally start to disperse after around 8 months, and start to exhibit territorial behaviour at around 2.5-years-old. They are the most territorial of extant crocodilians and, due to their aggressiveness to conspecifics, from the dispersed immature stage on, they are never seen in concentrations or loose groups as are most other crocodilians. However, even females will not reach proper sexual maturity for another 10 years. Saltwater crocodiles that survive to adulthood can attain a very long 最长寿命, with an estimated life expectancy upwards of 70 years, and some individuals possibly exceed 100 years, although no such extreme ages have been verified for any crocodilian.

While adults have few predators, baby saltwater crocodiles may fall prey to 巨蜥s (occasionally, but not commonly, the numerous goanna in Australia, and the 圆鼻巨蜥 (Varanus salvator) further north), predatory fish (especially the 尖吻鲈 (Lates calcarifer)), 野豬s, rats, various aquatic and raptorial birds (e.g. black-necked storks (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) and 白腹海鵰s (Haliaeetus leucogaster)), 蟒屬, larger crocodiles, and many other predators. Pigs and cattle also occasionally inadvertently trample eggs and nests on occasion and degrade habitat quality where found in numbers. Juveniles may also fall prey to tigers and 豹s (Panthera pardus) in certain parts of their range, although encounters between these predators are rare, and cats are likely to avoid areas with saltwater crocodiles.

Conservation status

Saltwater crocodile

The species is considered of minimal concern for extinction. Currently, the species is listed in 瀕危野生動植物種國際貿易公約 as follows:

• Appendix I (prohibiting all commercial trade in the species or its byproducts): All wild populations except for those of Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea;
• Appendix II (commercial trade allowed with export permit; import permits may or may not be required depending on the laws of the importing country): Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea wild populations, plus all worldwide populations bred in captivity for commercial purposes.

The saltwater crocodile was often hunted for its meat and eggs, and its skin is the most commercially valuable of any crocodilian. 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. The years from 1940 to 1970 were the peak of unregulated hunting and may have regionally caused irreparable damage to saltwater crocodile populations. The species currently has full legal protection in all Australian states and territories where it is found – Western Australia (since 1970), Northern Territory (since 1971) and Queensland (since 1974). Illegal hunting still persists in some areas, with protection in some countries being grossly ineffective, and trade is often difficult to monitor and control over such a vast range. However, many areas have not recovered; some population surveys have shown that although young crocodiles are present, fewer than 10% of specimens spotted are in adult size range and include no particularly large males, such as 斯里蘭卡 or the 帛琉. This is indicative of both potential continued persecution and exploitation and a non-recovered breeding population. In a more balanced population, such as those from Bhitarkanika National Park or 沙巴, 马来西亚, 28% and 24.2% of specimens observed were in the adult size range of more than 3米（9英尺10英寸）.

Habitat loss continues to be a major problem for the species. 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. Even where large areas of suitable habitat remain, subtle habitat alterations can be a problem, such as in the 安达曼群岛, where freshwater areas, used for nesting, are being increasingly converted to human agriculture. After the commercial value of crocodile skins waned, perhaps the greatest immediate challenge to implementing conservation efforts has been the occasional danger the species can pose to humans, and the resulting negative view of the crocodile.

Relationship with humans

Attacks on humans

参见：Crocodile attack

Of all the crocodilians, the saltwater crocodile and 尼羅鱷 have the strongest tendencies to treat humans as prey. The saltwater crocodile has a long history of attacking humans who unknowingly venture into its territory. As a result of its power, intimidating size and speed, survival of a direct predatory attack is unlikely if the crocodile is able to make direct contact. By contrast to the American policy of encouraging a certain degree of habitat coexistence with 美國短吻鱷, the only recommended policy for dealing with saltwater crocodiles is to completely avoid their habitat whenever possible, as they are exceedingly aggressive when encroached upon.

No Swimming sign used by Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory.

Exact data on attacks are limited outside Australia, where one or two fatal attacks are reported per year. From 1971 to 2013, the total number of fatalities reported in Australia due to saltwater crocodile attack was 106. The low level of attacks may be due to extensive efforts by wildlife officials in Australia to post crocodile warning signs at numerous at-risk billabongs, rivers, lakes and beaches. Less-publicised attacks have been reported in 婆罗洲, 蘇門答臘, 印度东部 (安达曼群岛), and 缅甸. In 砂拉越, 婆罗洲, the average number of fatal attacks is reportedly 2.8 annually for the years from 2000 to 2003. In the 北領地 in Australia, attempts have been made to relocate saltwater crocodiles who have displayed aggressive behaviour towards humans but these have proven ineffective as the problem crocodiles are apparently able to find their way back towards their original territories. In the 达尔文 (澳大利亚) from 2007–2009, 67–78% of "problem crocodiles" were identified as males.

Many attacks in areas outside Australia are believed to go unreported, with one study positing up to 20 to 30 attacks occur every year. This number may be conservative in light of several areas where humans and saltwater crocodiles co-exist in relatively undeveloped, low-economy and rural regions, where attacks are likely to go unreported. However, claims in the past that saltwater crocodiles are responsible for thousands of human fatalities annually are likely to have been exaggerations and were probably falsified to benefit leather companies, hunting organizations and other sources which may have benefited from maximizing the negative perception of crocodiles for financial gain. Although it does not pay to underestimate such a formidable predator, one that has no reason to not view humans as prey, many wild saltwater crocodiles are normally quite wary of humans and will go out of their way to submerge and swim away from them, even large adult males, if previously subject to harassment or persecution. Some attacks on humans appear to be territorial rather than predatory in nature, with crocodiles over two years in age often attacking anything that comes into their area (including boats). Humans can usually escape alive from such encounters, which comprise about half of all attacks. Non-fatal attacks usually involve crocodiles of 3米（9英尺10英寸） or less in length. Fatal attacks, more likely to be predatory in motivation, commonly involve larger crocodiles with an average estimated size of 4.3米（14英尺1英寸）. Under normal circumstances, 尼羅鱷s are believed to be responsible for a considerably greater number of fatal attacks on humans than saltwater crocodiles, but this may have more to do with the fact that many people in Africa tend to rely on riparian areas for their livelihood, which is less prevalent in most of Asia and certainly less so in Australia. In the 安达曼群岛, the number of fatal attacks on humans has reportedly increased, the reason inferred due to habitat destruction and reduction of natural prey.

During the Japanese retreat in the 兰里岛之战 on 19 February 1945, saltwater crocodiles may have been responsible for the deaths of over 400 Japanese soldiers. British soldiers encircled the swampland through which the Japanese were retreating, condemning the Japanese to a night in the mangroves, which were home to thousands of saltwater crocodiles. Many Japanese soldiers did not survive this night, but their death mainly as a result of crocodile attacks has been doubted. Another reported mass attack reportedly involve a cruise in eastern 印度 where a boat accident forced 28 people into the water where they were reportedly consumed by saltwater crocodiles. Another notorious crocodile attack was in 1985, on ecofeminist Val Plumwood, who survived the attack.

In July 2018, a 600-strong mob slaughtered 292 saltwater and 新畿內亞鱷s in Papua province in Indonesia in a revenge attack after a man who encroached the sanctuary was devoured.

Cultural references

1948 postage stamp depicting an aboriginal artwork of the saltwater crocodile

According to Wondjina, the mythology of 澳大利亚原住民s, the saltwater crocodile was banished from the fresh water for becoming full of bad spirits and growing too large, unlike the freshwater crocodile, which was somewhat revered. As such, Aboriginal rock art depicting the saltwater crocodile is rare, although examples of up to 3,000 years old can be found in caves in Kakadu and Arnhem land, roughly matching the species distribution. The species is frequently depicted in contemporary aboriginal art.

The species is featured on several postage stamps, including an 1894 State of North Borneo 12-cent stamp; a 1948 Australian 2 shilling stamp depicting an aboriginal rock artwork of the species; a 1966 Republic of Indonesia stamp; a 1994 Palau 20-cent stamp; a 1997 Australian 22-cent stamp; and a 2005 1 Malaysian ringgit postage stamp.

The species has featured in contemporary Australian film and television including the "Crocodile" Dundee series of films and The Crocodile Hunter television series. There are now several saltwater crocodile-themed parks in Australia.

The crocodile is considered to be holy on 帝汶. According to legend, the island was formed by a giant crocodile. The 巴布亚人 have a similar and very involved myth and traditionally the crocodile was described as a relative (normally a father or grandfather).

Examples of large unconfirmed saltwater crocodiles

Large saltwater crocodiles have always attracted mainstream attention throughout the ages, and have suffered from all sorts of big fish stories and hunter tales, due to man's desire to find the largest of any given thing. Therefore, the largest size recorded for a saltwater crocodile has always been a subject of considerable controversy. The reason behind unverified sizes is either the case of insufficient/inconclusive data or exaggeration from a folkloric point of view. This section is dedicated to examples of the largest saltwater crocodiles recorded outside scientific norms measurement and estimation, with the aim of satisfying the public interest without creating data pollution, as well as serving an educational purpose of guiding the reader to separate fact from possible fiction. Below, in descending order starting from the largest, are some examples of large unconfirmed saltwater crocodiles, recorded throughout history.

• A crocodile shot in the 孟加拉灣 in 1840 was reported at 10.1米（33英尺2英寸）. Furthermore, this specimen was claimed to have a belly girth of 4.17米（13英尺8英寸） and a body mass estimated 3,000公斤（6,600磅）. However, the skull of this specimen was examined by Guinness Records and found to be only 66.5 cm（26.2英寸） in length, indicating the above size was considerably exaggerated and the animal would have probably measured no more than 5.89米（19英尺4英寸）.
• James R. Montgomery, who ran a plantation near to the Lower Kinabatangan Segama Wetlands in 婆罗洲 from 1926 to 1932, claimed to have netted, killed, and examined numerous crocodiles well over 6.1米（20英尺0英寸） there, including a specimen he claims measured 10米（32英尺10英寸）. However, no one scientifically confirmed any of Montgomery's specimens and no voucher specimens are known.
• A crocodile shot in Queensland in 1957, nicknamed Krys the croc (named after the woman that shot the crocodile in July 1957; Krystina Pawlowski), was reported to be 8.63米（28英尺4英寸） long, but no verified measurements were made and no remains of this crocodile exist. A "replica" of this crocodile has been made as a tourist attraction.
• A crocodile killed in 1823 at Jalajala, Rizal on the main island of 呂宋 in the 菲律宾 was reported at 8.2米（26英尺11英寸）. However the skull of the specimen is 66.5 cm（26.2英寸） long indicating an animal of approximately 6.1米（20英尺0英寸）.
• A crocodile shot in 奥里萨邦, India, was claimed to measure 7.6米（24英尺11英寸） in life, but its skull, when given scholarly examination, was thought to have come from a crocodile of a length no greater than 7米（23英尺0英寸）.
• A reported 7.6米（24英尺11英寸） crocodile was killed in the 胡格利河 in the Alipore District of 加尔各答. However, examinations of the animal's skull, one of the largest skulls known to exist for the species at 75 cm（30英寸） long, actually indicating it could have measured 6.7米（22英尺0英寸）.
• In 2006, 吉尼斯世界纪录 accepted a 7.01米（23英尺0英寸）, 2,000-kg (4,400-lb) male saltwater crocodile living within Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha. Due to the difficulty of trapping and measuring a very large living crocodile, the accuracy of these dimensions is yet to be verified. These observations and estimations have been made by park officials over the course of ten years, from 2006 to 2016, however, regardless of the skill of the observers it cannot be compared to a verified tape measurement, especially considering the uncertainty inherent in visual size estimation in the wild. In addition, this region may contain up to four other specimens measuring over 6.1米（20英尺0英寸）.
• S. Baker (1874) claimed that in 斯里蘭卡 in the 1800s, specimens measuring 6.7米（22英尺0英寸） or more were commonplace. However, the largest specimen killed on the island that was considered authentic by Guinness Records was a suspected man-eater killed in the 東部省 (斯里蘭卡) and measuring exactly 6米（19英尺8英寸） in length.
• The record size for a crocodile from 巴布亚新几内亚 to be considered authentic by Guinness was a 6.32米（20英尺9英寸） specimen shot by Herb Schweighofer in May 1966 along the northeastern coast. This specimen had a belly girth of 2.74米（9英尺0英寸）.

參看

• 印度的鱷魚

外部連結

• 維基物種上的相關信息：灣鱷
• Fisheries Western Australia – Estuarine Crocodile Fact Sheet
• Saltwater crocodiles in freedom: Authentic pictures and descriptions
• Comprehensive Saltwater Crocodile web site unique information, plentiful images and video presentations
• Saltwater crocodile calls from Dr. Britton's crocodilian.com site
• Brief discussion from Dr. Britton and others discussing 馳龍科 intelligence