The Mugger Crocodile is a large species of crocodile that is found in freshwater habitats across South Asia. These crocodiles are also known as the Marsh Crocodile.
Thet typically have a dark olive to brown coloration, helping them blend into their muddy surroundings.
These reptiles are known for their opportunistic feeding behaviour and can be found in rivers, lakes, and marshes, preying on fish, amphibians, and occasionally small mammals or birds.
Mugger Crocodile Taxonomy
In the Animal Kingdom, Taxonomy is used as the science and practice of classifying different species and sub-species based on their biological and genetic makeup.
Family
The family that the Mugger Crocodile belongs to is called Crocodylidae. This is the family of True Crocodiles native to the tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world.
These Crocodiles can be found in places such as Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia.
There are currently 3 recognised genera and a total of 18 recognised species in this family.
There are more species in the Crocodilia Sub-Family such as Alligators and Caiman but these species aren’t considered ‘True Crocodiles’.
The most obvious external differences are visible in the head, with Crocodiles having narrower and longer heads, with a more V-shaped than a U-shaped snout compared to Alligators and Caimans.
Genus
The genus that the Mugger Crocodile belongs to is called Crocodylus. While some sources consider the 3 genera of Crocodylidae as ‘True Crocodiles’, the species in this genus really are the ‘True Crocodile’ species.
There are currently 13 recognised species in this genus and a few recognised sub-species. There are also 5 extinct species in the genus.
The Crocodylus genus likely originated from Africa with species spreading towards South-East Asia and the Americas. However, some scientists believe their roots can be traced to Asia and Australia.
Species
The scientific name for the Mugger Crocodile is Crocodylus palustris and there are currently no recognised sub-species.
This species was first described in 1831 by a French herpetologist named René-Primevère Lesson.
Mugger Crocodile Description
An adult Mugger Crocodile can typically reach lengths of 8 to 13 feet (2.5 to 4 meters), although larger individuals have been reported.
They have a broad and relatively short snout in comparison to some other species of crocodile.
The Mugger Crocodile usually has a dark olive to brown coloration with some individuals having lighter markings. This coloration helps them camouflage in the muddy habitats they inhabit.
Their body is covered with thick, bony plates called osteoderms, providing a form of armour. These plates act as a protective layer, particularly on the back and tail.
Their eyes and nostrils are positioned towards the top of their head which allows them to remain almost fully submerged when on the surface.
Natural Habitat and Distribution
The Mugger Crocodile is primarily found in freshwater habitats across South Asia. Their distribution spans from Iran in the west, through the Indian subcontinent, to the island of Sri Lanka.
They inhabit a variety of environments, including rivers, lakes, marshes and ponds.
These crocodiles are well adapted to both freshwater and brackish water conditions. They are also found in areas with slow-moving or stagnant water.
The Mugger Crocodile has a range that is closely tied to the availability of suitable aquatic habitats and prey resources.
They are known to be adaptable to both natural and human-altered environments. Despite this adaptability, they face threats such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal hunting which can impact their populations in certain regions.
Conservation efforts are important to ensure the survival of Mugger Crocodile in its native habitats.
Mugger Crocodile Behaviour
The Mugger Crocodile is a nocturnal species, meaning they are usually more active during the night, especially when it comes to hunting.
Their nocturnal behaviour can be influenced by factors such as temperature and prey availability. They will bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
These crocodiles are skilled predators that use stealth and patience to ambush their prey. They patiently wait partially submerged, often near the water’s edge, and then swiftly lunge to catch unsuspecting prey.
The Mugger Crocodile can communicate using body language. Postures, movements and other subtle behaviours play a role in signalling dominance, submission or territorial claims.