The Zoo has one male and one female West African dwarf crocodile on exhibit.
The male hatched on December 13, 1979 at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, WA. He arrived on July 9, 2002.
It is estimated the female hatched in 1974. She arrived on July 9, 2002 from the Los Angeles Zoo.
These two dwarf crocodiles were introduced to each other on October of 2003, and have laid many fertile eggs throughout their years together. The resulting offspring have moved on to zoos across the east coast.
Viewing Hints
We have an adult pair on exhibit during the summer inside the Reptile and Amphibian House.
Coloration is usually black or dark brown with yellow and black coloration on the belly. They are heavily “armored,” having bony plates in the neck, back, and tail scales.
Longevity
13 years in captivity.
Behavior
In the wild the dwarf crocodile is both solitary and nocturnal. At night they will hunt for fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and other terrestrial prey close to the water or on land. During the day they will retreat to self constructed burrows or hide amongst tree roots.
Reproduction
After breeding, the female will construct a nest of vegetation in which to lay her eggs. Once the eggs are laid (usually 10-20) she will guard the nest from predators. After about 100 days the eggs will begin to hatch. The female will also protect the hatchlings as they make their way from the nest to the water.
Conservation Status
On the 2011 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the West African dwarf crocodile is listed as Vulnerable.
To learn more about the conservation efforts at the Philadelphia Zoo, click here.