Crocodiles

Freshwater crocodiles

Crocodylus johnsoni

Freshwater crocodiles are relatively small, with males only growing to a maximum of three metres and females to only just above two metres. They are a shy species and have a more slender snout and slightly smaller teeth than their cousins the saltwater crocodile.

Rockhampton Zoo is fortunate to have Victoria and Hahn, two adult freshwater crocodiles. Since living at Rockhampton Zoo, Victoria and Hahn have successfully bred two clutches of eggs. All hatchlings have been re-homed to other zoos around Australia.

Distribution and habitat	Northern Australia from Cape York to the Kimberleys. In freshwater wetlands, billabongs, rivers and creeks.
Conservation status*	Least concern (is a protected species in Australia)
Population	Numbers are decreasing due to ingestion of the cane toad
Diet	Feed mainly on fish but will take other prey when available

* Classified by IUCN

 

Saltwater crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

Saltwater crocodiles are the largest of all living reptiles and are the apex predator for their aquatic environment. Male saltwater crocodiles can grow up to seven metres long, with females averaging around three metres.

Our saltwater crocodile, 'The Colonel' was born in the wild in Northern Queensland, relocated to the Koorana Crocodile Farm in Central Queensland then made his way to Rockhampton Zoo. He is a mighty 4.3 metres long. 

Distribution and habitat	Northern Australia through to South East Asia and the eastern coast of India in wetland areas.
Conservation status*	Least concern (is a protected species in Australia)
Population	Roughly 100,000 across Australia
Diet	Prey is varied and includes fish, amphibians, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, small to medium sized mammals and other reptiles such as snakes and lizards.

* Classified by IUCN