See the Freshwater Crocodiles | Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Conservation Status Secure
Distribution They are found in freshwater environments such as streams, lagoons, rivers and billabongs of Northern Australia
Life Span They can live to over 60 years
Gestation Up to 95 days

I'm a Freshwater Crocodile

Freshwater Crocodiles, though smaller than their Saltwater cousins, share the same powerful tail and are easily recognised by their slimmer snout. Their colouring is usually grey or tan-brown, marked with darker patches, and their sharp teeth remain visible even when their mouths are closed.

These crocodiles have longer hind legs than front ones, a feature that helps them glide efficiently through the water. They are typically found in rivers, creeks and swamps, often staying close to the shallows along the edges.

Unlike Saltwater Crocodiles, Freshwater Crocodiles are generally not considered dangerous to humans. They are mostly nocturnal hunters, feeding on frogs, fish, crustaceans, small birds, and reptiles. As a protected species, they play an important role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystem.

Fun Fact

Freshwater Crocodiles are great at hiding! Their colors help them blend in with the water and mud, so they can sneak up on small animals like fish and frogs without being seen.

Close-up view of a crocodiles face, showing its textured skin, sharp teeth, and a focused, yellow-green eye.

See Freshwater Crocodiles

Map Locations

W13

Best time to see me

Anytime

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This Way

Jingeri – Hello

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the greater Yugambeh language region, the Country on which Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital are situated today. We recognise their continuing connections to the land, sky, waters (waterways), and wildlife. We thank them for caring for this Country and its ecosystems.

We celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and we pay our respect to Elders past and present.

Freshwater Crocodile