https://kids.guinnessworldrecords.com en

Largest crocodile in captivity ever

Largest crocodile in captivity ever
Who
Lolong
What
6.17 metre(s)
Where
Philippines (Bunawan)
When
03 September 2011

The largest crocodile in captivity ever was a 6.17-m (20-ft 2.91-in) saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) captured on 3 September 2011 in Bunawan, in the province of Agusan del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines. The crocodile was named Lolong and housed in a custom-built enclosure at Bunawan Eco-Park and Research Centre, Philippines. Lolong was weighed in at a truck weigh-bridge and verified as approximately 1,075 kg (2,370 lb). Lolong died on 10 February 2013.

The capture of the crocodile came after a two-year effort to remove the animal thought responsible for a young girl's death at Agusan Marsh in early March 2009, and later the disappearance of a fisherman close to Bunawan Village.

Main image via Alamy. Video via Discovery TV / YouTube

The Natural Habitat of Crocodiles and Their Adaptation in Captivity

Crocodiles are a unique reptile that have outlived dinosaurs. Their natural habitats are typically wet, marshy tropical areas and they live for longer in captivity. If left in the wild, they can survive intense situations owing to their cold bloodedness. As a result, they can control their body temperature and store great amounts of energy. They have a heightened sense of smell and sound, meaning they can be deadly predators. Healing from injuries is also far more developed in crocodiles and they have a very strong immune system.

While crocodiles live longer in captive environments, there are some key differences between wild and captive environments that impact their wellbeing. In captivity, they can be subject to exploitation for commercial purposes like selling their skin or meat. That said, having crocodiles in captivity can also protect them from being poached in the wild. Farmers who keep crocodiles in captivity are often required to be licensed to do so.

Given their strong immune system and adaptability, Crocodiles are fit to survive in many different types of settings as long as they meet the basic requirements of being wet, marshy or tropical. Often, they are required to be in a controlled setting to prevent harm to human beings. Putting crocodiles in captivity though, does not mean they can be domesticated as pets.

Species of Crocodiles Known for Their Size

Saltwater crocodiles are the ones most likely to eat a human being. They are typically around 23 feet in height and easily weigh over a 1000 lbs. Lovingly called Salties, these crocodiles populate east India, areas of Southeast Asia and northern Australia. They possess the least threat to extinction when compared to other crocodile species.

Freshwater crocodiles, on the other hand, are less confrontational and smaller in size as well. On average, their length is about 9.8 feet and they weigh around 154 lbs. They are typically found in western and northern Australia. Like saltwater crocodiles, their population is not a high concern, and they do not possess a severe threat to extinction.

There are over 20 different types of crocodiles that have been identified by experts. The Nile crocodile is a species present in south and eastern Africa and Madagascar. It is the largest and most aggressive species at almost 20 feet and 900 pounds. Caiman are one the smallest crocodiles and are around 6 feet. They typically populate regions of Mexico and Brazil.

Memorable Large Crocodiles in Captivity History

  • Cassius from Australia was the largest crocodile in captivity (living) until 2024, when he sadly passed away. Cassius was over 17 feet tall and was around 100 years old.
  • Crocodiles Of The World is a one-of-a-kind crocodile zoo in the UK. It aims to conserve crocodiles and educate people about the giant reptiles.
  • There around seven types of crocodiles that have been categorized as critically endangered. This includes the Chinese alligator of the crocodilian family, fewer than 120 of which can be found in the wild.
  • One of the unfortunate factors that has led to an increasing interest in crocodiles is the hunt for their skins as a fashion symbol.

The Role of Captivity in Studying Crocodile Behaviour and Biology

Captivity and captive breeding are often used to conserve animals under threat. Typically, the end goal of captive breeding is to transition animals back to their natural habitat. For example, Crocodiles Of The World breeds critically endangered and vulnerable species like the Siamese crocodile. In the case of some crocodile species, ethical captivity is also done to protect the danger posed to human beings.

For crocodiles, controlled settings can provide optimal temperatures. This is important because extreme temperatures can cause stress and even impact their lifespans. A balanced diet, access to clean water, and elimination of harmful human activities allows the crocodiles to be at ease in a perfectly simulated environment.

Reptiles play an important role in scientific research, specifically, understanding genetics and evolution. Researchers and zoologists must be credited for their contribution to this important field. The former ideates how to conserve crocodile species in their best interest while the latter executes the planning and creates a nurturing environment.

The Importance of Conservation and Rehabilitation for Large Crocodiles

A major threat to crocodiles is disappearing biodiversity. Crocodiles depend on things like having enough prey, swamps and appropriate nesting areas – all of which are impacted by climate change.

Organizations like the Crocodile Research Coalition and The Crocodile Foundation are actively working to protect crocodiles from the threats that they face. Nonprofits like these often employ a mixed strategy of educational awareness and research to get closer to achieving the goal of protecting crocodiles in rapidly changing environments.

In general, captive programmes are an effective way to conserve near-extinct or endangered species. They provide natural habitats, which are under increasing threats and subject to ill-effects of climate change.

Words by Prakriti Panwar