Crocodiles of Madagascar

The Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is the largest predator in Madagascar’s freshwater ecosystems. Historically, this species was widespread and feared by local communities, but extensive hunting for its valuable skin has led to a significant decline in its population. Today, the Nile crocodile is considered threatened in Madagascar, with reduced numbers in many of its former habitats.

Habitat and Distribution

Nile crocodiles are found in Madagascar’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands, where they prey on fish, birds, and mammals. One of the more unusual locations where crocodiles are found is the cave systems of Ankarana Special Reserve. This discovery, which defies typical crocodile behavior, has attracted scientific interest.

Cave-Dwelling Crocodiles

In Ankarana, crocodiles have adapted to living in dark, underground cave networks. In 2003, National Geographic led an expedition to study this unusual behavior, raising questions about how these crocodiles survive in such an environment and whether they represent an isolated, genetically distinct population.