Quick answer
Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are reptiles found across Africa. Africa's largest and most formidable predator of the rivers. Adults typically weigh Up to 750 kg (1,650 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 70–100 years. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile basin.
Key takeaway
Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are reptiles found across Africa. Africa's largest and most formidable predator of the rivers. Adults typically weigh Up to 750 kg (1,650 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 70–100 years. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile basin.
Nile Crocodile overview
Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is a reptile listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight Up to 750 kg (1,650 lb); lifespan around 70–100 years.
Nile Crocodile ecology
Diet: Carnivore. Habitat: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Nile Crocodiles and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild nile crocodiles are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Nile Crocodile profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Nile Crocodiles inhabit Rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile basin. Their preferred habitat includes rivers, lakes, and wetlands, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult nile crocodiles typically measure about 5 m in length and weigh Up to 750 kg (1,650 lb). They can sprint at up to 30 km/h (19 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Nile Crocodiles are known for africa's largest and most formidable predator of the rivers — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Nile Crocodile FAQs
What are key facts about nile crocodiles?
Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are reptiles found across Africa. Africa's largest and most formidable predator of the rivers. Adults typically weigh Up to 750 kg (1,650 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 70–100 years. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Rivers, lakes, and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile basin.
What is the scientific name of the nile crocodile?
Crocodylus niloticus — used in research and conservation listings for nile crocodiles.
What do nile crocodiles eat?
Nile Crocodiles are described as carnivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
Where do nile crocodiles live?
They are associated with Rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of nile crocodiles?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.