American Crocodile
Crocodylus acutus
Panama's largest reptile and a perfect predator that has barely changed in millions of years. These prehistoric hunters lurk in the rivers and mangroves of both coasts.
The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) can reach 6 metres long and over 900 kg, making it the largest reptile in the New World. It inhabits both fresh and saltwater habitats and is one of the few crocodiles that regularly swims in the open sea.
As an apex predator, it feeds on fish, birds and mammals of any size. It is an ambush hunter that often lies motionless in the water for hours before striking in an explosive attack.
In Panama it is found mainly in the mangroves and estuaries of the Pacific coast and in Gatún Lake. Specimens are regularly sighted along the Canal — especially in Lake Gatún and its tributaries.
- Kind
- reptile
- Season
- year_round
- Habitat
- Coastal lagoons, estuaries, mangroves, large rivers and lakes. In both fresh and brackish water.