African crocodiles have been inhabiting the planet for over 150 million years. These large, aquatic reptiles live in warm water bodies throughout sub-Saharan Africa. While they prefer freshwater habitats, they may also be found in brackish water, with most large rivers being home to large populations of African crocodile.
The African crocodile has four subspecies, namely the large Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus); West African crocodile (Crocodylus suchus), or desert crocodile; the slender-snouted crocodile (Crocodylus cataphractus), and the Dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis). Although Africa is home to other crocodile species, only the African crocodile is hunted.
African crocodiles range in color from dark bronze to a brownish-black, with the broad snout becoming more noticeable as the animal ages. While you may be privileged enough to track down a trophy of up to 20 ft, the average mature male African crocodile measures between 13-15 ft, and weighs up to 2,000 lbs.
Crocodile hunting is exciting due to the fact that crocodiles are extremely dangerous reptiles, which have killed many humans. It would be a good idea to steer clear of his teeth and tail, and don't imagine that the large reptile with a small brain and short legs is slow, because it is not.
Crocodiles have hooked teeth that make chewing difficult. Instead, they will hold onto their prey and spin it until a part of the anatomy is freed from the rest of the meal. The smaller bite goes down the gullet whole, and the rest of it is stored at the bottom of the river until it is sufficiently decomposed for the croc to enjoy.
Crocodile hunting in Africa is usually included with a hippo hunting trip.
Pair a Crocodile Hunt with a Hippo Hunt for the ultimate Dangerous Game Hunting Experience
| Scientific Name: | Crocodylus niloticus |
| Male Weight: | 225 - 750 kg |
| Male Height: | 3.5 - 5 m |
| Teeth: | 64 - 68 |
Cold-blooded reptiles, African crocodiles spend time laying on river banks, basking in the sun to regulate their internal temperatures. Stalking crocodiles is difficult, as they can feel the vibration of approaching mammals. Their can see and hear well, too. Professional hunters typically park the safari vehicle some distance away from the river bank and make a quiet approach. If the hunting group is detected, the crocodile will retreat into the water in the blink of an eye.
Extremely deceptive and dangerous, it takes significant effort and superb marksmanship to put a crocodile down. .
The African crocodile is typically shot from distances of between 50-200 yards and sometimes even further. Choose an accurate rifle with a minimum of a 180 grain bullet with 3500 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and 2900 feet per second. A better choice will be a .33-.35 caliber rifle with powerful 250 grain bullets. Since you will likely be in a prone position when you take your shot, a .375 will probably knock you hard.
Since crocodiles may be older than 100 years, risky shots are not permitted. Crocodiles have a small brain that is protected by a thick, bony skull. The last thing you want is for a wounded crocodile to swim to the bottom of the river to die. For shot placement to put the crocodile down right away, you need to find a side angle and line up right behind the eyes. This will give you a deep target approximately two to three inches wide.
Alternatively, you could opt for a neck shot, which presents a larger target.
Crocodile Shot Placement
Broadside
Crocodile Shot Placement
Frontal
