This is the only crocodile species found in South Africa. These are true relics from the past. Crocodiles have roamed the earth since the age of dinosaurs and have changed very little over the past couple of million years.

Crocodiles make a formidable enemy for any prey and indeed consider humans as such on a regular basis. Keeping this in mind, it is ironic that Hippos kill more people in Africa than crocodiles. These animals are considered super predators with various adaptations to help them make the perfect kill and are perfectly happy on land as well as in the water. Hunting usually takes place in the water, where the crocodile will kill prey by drowning it.

But how is it that an animal such as a buffalo with keen senses is not able to see a crocodile long before being attacked? If you look at a crocodile’s head you will notice that the eyes and nostrils are slightly raised and positioned in such a way that if the croc is submerged, only the eyes and nostrils are above the water surface. Trying to spot a Nile crocodile in African waters is like trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack – virtually impossible. Just before jumping out of the water to grab prey, the crocodile will dive under the water. This means, that even if the buffalo did spot the crocodile, it will lose sight of it the moment it dives. Being able to jump up to 5 meters out of the water, it is safe to say that animal standing around long enough has any chance of escaping a hungry croc.

Unfortunately, commercial hunting has reduced crocodile numbers to such an extent that most crocodile species all over the world, including the Nile crocodile, are now endangered. Of the 22 species alive today, an astonishing 17 species are on the verge of extinction. The high demand for crocodile skins have driven many species close to extinction which resulted in the birth of crocodile farms. Crocodile farms believe in ‘conservation through utilization’. This basically comes down to the fact that once an animal has commercial value, it will never become extinct – chickens for instance will never be an endangered species for the simple reason that we as humans utilize them and therefore create a demand for chickens. Conservation through utilization has saved many a crocodile species from extinction.

At the Cango Wildlife Ranch you will meet these ancient wonders face to face. We are not a commercial farm and do not breed crocodiles for their skins or meat. Our crocodiles are in residence to educate visitors on the fascinating intricacies of these ancient reptiles. Take a walk on the wild side and face your fears at the Cango Wildlife Ranch.