These crocodiles are called dwarf crocodiles because they are much smaller than some other kinds of crocodiles. While some crocodiles can grow to be as much as 20 feet long, the West African dwarf croc "only" grows to be 5-6 feet long, with a weight of up to 70 pounds. Still, six feet can be pretty darned big if you're on the receiving end of those teeth! This crocodile, as well as other crocodiles and alligators, has 60 teeth at a time, and 3000 in a lifetime!

What Do These Crocodiles Eat?
Crocodiles in general are carnivorous (meat-eaters), and the dwarf croc is no exception. In the wild, they will eat whatever they can catch, including crustaceans, fish, small reptiles, birds, and mammals. At the Zoo, we feed them dead rats and chickens, but sometimes this isn't all they eat. If a squirrel or rabbit has the misfortune to hop into the croc enclosure, the crocs may have an extra meal -- one of our crocodiles once ate an unfortunate squirrel who mistook her for a rock and walked right onto her nose!

Where Do They Live, and What Are They Like?
West African Dwarf crocodiles live in the freshwater streams, rivers, and wetlands of West Africa. They prefer slow moving waters and will avoid major waterways. They're well-suited to their environment, with eyes placed high on their heads to help them see above the water line while their bodies stay submerged. They swim with their tails and "steer" with their hind feet. Their skin is heavily armored, and they have bony plated scales on their underside. And remember those 60 teeth? Well, when a crocodile's mouth is closed, you can still see those teeth!

Are These Crocs Endangered?
West African dwarf crocodiles are classified as an endangered species. This species is often killed for its meat, but while hunting may have some impact, habitat loss is a much larger threat to these reptiles.