Crocodile.

Crocodile. Class Reptilia Order Crocodylia Family Crocodylidae Genus Crocodylus Conservation Several species are endangered due to hunting and habitat destruction. Concerns Range Tropical regions worldwide. Habitat Shallow bodies of water, including swamps, marshes, and rivers. Size Largest: The estuarine, or saltwater, crocodile grows up to 7 m (23 ft) in length, and weighs up to 1000 kg (2200 lb). Smallest: The African dwarf crocodile grows to about 1.9 m (6.2 ft). Feeding Habits Crocodiles are carnivores; they eat fish, birds, turtles, frogs, and mammals. Young crocodiles eat worms, small fish, and insects. Offspring The female crocodile lays up to 90 eggs and buries them. In some species, the female remains with the eggs, and assists the hatchlings to water. Life Span Up to 65 years. Did You Know Unlike an alligator, a crocodile's two large lower teeth are visible when its jaw is closed. A baby crocodile breaks out of its egg with a special hard tip on its snout. The estuarine crocodile is the largest known living reptile. Crocodiles have no sweat glands. They lose heat through their mouths, and sometimes pant like dogs to keep cool. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.