This Massive Crocodile Comes When Called Like a True ‘Swamp Puppy’

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You might not believe someone if they told you they had a pet crocodile that came when called. However, the evidence is real. There are crocodiles out there who not only know their names but also answer to them. What is it like keeping a crocodile as a pet, and is it even an ethical thing to do for the animal?

How Big Are Crocodiles?

Crocodiles vary in size depending on the species. According to the Natural History Museum in London, there are around 28 species of crocodiles. Crocodiles are related to alligators, but they split from each other millions of years ago, and today they are not in the same family. Crocodiles are able to tolerate saltwater, which allowed them to spread around the world.

The American crocodile can grow up to 20 feet long, although most are around 14 feet. Saltwater crocodiles are the largest species and have been recorded at 23 feet and over 2,200 pounds.

Are Crocodiles Social?

We may think of crocodiles as leading solitary lives, but they do get together for hunting or raising babies. Unlike other reptiles, crocodiles are surprisingly good parents to their hatchlings. Scientists have found that crocodiles form long-term relationships based on a hierarchical system. They also communicate through vocal calls, touch, and chemical signals.

Research has shown that crocodiles are the most intelligent reptiles. When hunting crocodiles, researchers find that crocs quickly learn to avoid dangerous situations, and crocodile hunters must constantly modify their hunting techniques.

Are Crocodiles Friendly With Humans?

Usually, crocodiles want nothing to do with humans. Unless they view a human as a threat, they will not try to attack. Nor do they go out of their way to interact with humans. However, some people have raised crocodiles and say they have formed close bonds with the massive reptiles.

In a YouTube video, All Creatures Brett calls a crocodile by its name, and it comes over to him just like a well-trained puppy. The crocodile, named Margarita, is a Morelet’s crocodile. This species is a little smaller than other crocodiles, usually reaching around ten feet in length. Morelet’s crocodiles are native to the Atlantic regions of Central America.

In the video, All Creatures Brett calls the crocodile his good girl and refers to her as “sweet pea.” She just gazes up at him, perhaps wondering if he’s about to offer her a tasty treat.

Do People Keep Crocodiles As Pets?

Crocodiles are illegal to keep as pets in many places. In America, each state has its own exotic animal laws, and some exotic animals may be completely outlawed, or allowed only with special permits or licenses. There are areas in Australia where pet crocodiles are permitted. The United Kingdom also has laws permitting pet crocodiles, but special licenses are required.

Is It a Good Idea to Have a Pet Crocodile?

The people who have pet crocodiles report they are loving animals and have formed close bonds with them, just like any other pet. However, crocodiles require certain conditions to thrive. They need lighting, humidity, and temperature to be at just the right levels. They are also carnivores and will need a diet of meat. It may be hard to find a veterinarian willing to care for an exotic animal, such as a crocodile. Finally, they live long lives, and before you bring a crocodile into your home, you need to be able to commit to caring for it for up to 70 years.

Aside from the care involved, a crocodile is not domesticated. Although they may become accustomed to being around humans, they are still wild animals, and wild animals can be unpredictable. Unpredictable animals with huge, powerful jaws and razor-sharp teeth may end up being more than you bargained for.

Crocodiles that start as cute hatchlings will one day grow into massive reptiles with many needs. Anyone considering bringing home a baby crocodile must consider the long-term commitment.

Do Crocodiles Enjoy Domestic Life?

Of course, we can’t know what crocodiles think. But we can look at their wild behavior and see that a home environment will never replicate what they do each day in the wild. Olivia Charlton, from World Animal Protection, explained in a statement, “There is no way to replicate the space and freedom these crocodiles would have in the wild, particularly given they live for up to 70 years.”

For example, saltwater crocodiles have been seen surfing the ocean waves, traveling for miles at a time. One crocodile tracked in a study traveled over 366 miles in a period of 25 days. Many of the crocodiles in the study often swam over 30 miles from their home, traveling back and forth between the river mouth and the sea.

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