The New Guinea Crocodile is a species of crocodile native to the islands of New Guinea and nearby regions in Indonesia.
It is a medium-sized crocodile, with adults typically growing to lengths of 2 to 3 meters (6.6 to 9.8 feet), although larger individuals have been reported.
The New Guinea Crocodile lives in freshwater habitats such as rivers, swamps, and lakes. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, such as fish, birds, and mammals.
While they are generally less aggressive towards humans compared to some other crocodile species, they can still be dangerous if provoked.
Conservation efforts are in place to protect this species and its habitat, as they face threats from habitat loss and hunting.
New Guinea 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 New Guinea 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 New Guinea 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 New Guinea Crocodile is Crocodylus novaeguineae and there are currently no recognised sub-species.
This species was first described in 1928 by an American herpetologist named Karl Patterson Schmidt.
Originally, the Philippine Crocodile was considered a sub-species of the New Guinea until it was later elevated to full species status.
The specific name ‘novaeguineae’ is derived from Latin and translates to “of New Guinea”.
New Guinea Crocodile Description
The New Guinea Crocodile is relatively small compared to some other crocodile species.
Adults typically reach lengths of 2 to 3 meters (6.6 to 9.8 feet), although some individuals can grow slightly larger.
They have a streamlined body with a broad, V-shaped snout. This snout shape is characteristic of crocodiles while alligators typically have a U-shaped snout.
The coloration of New Guinea Crocodile can vary, but they often have a dark green or brownish-grey body with lighter stripes or spots.
Their body is covered in tough, scaly skin, which provides protection and helps regulate their body temperature.
Their eyes and nostrils are located on the top of their head, allowing them to see and breathe while mostly submerged in the water.
Natural Habitat and Distribution
The New Guinea Crocodile is native to the islands of New Guinea and nearby regions in the South-Western Pacific.
The island of New Guinea is divided between two countries: the Western half is part of Indonesia (Papua and West Papua provinces) while the Eastern half is Papua New Guinea.
In the Papua and West Papua provinces, these crocodiles can be found in various rivers, swamps and along coastal areas.
In addition to New Guinea itself, these crocodiles can also be found on some smaller islands in the surrounding region, especially those within close proximity to New Guinea.
New Guinea Crocodile Behaviour
The New Guinea Crocodile is primarily aquatic and exhibit both nocturnal and diurnal behaviours.
They are skilled swimmers, utilizing their powerful tails to navigate through water with ease.
These crocodiles are opportunistic predators, feeding on fish, amphibians and occasionally birds or mammals that come near the water’s edge.
While generally shy and elusive, the New Guinea Crocodile can become aggressive when they feel threatened.
It’s important for humans to exercise caution when in their habitat, as conflicts can arise if the crocodile perceives them as a potential threat.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs during the wet season, a female New Guinea Crocodile will construct a nest made of vegetation to lay their eggs. They are known for their maternal care, guarding the nest and hatchlings.
Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these crocodiles and maintain a balance in their ecosystems.
