Reptiles
Slender-snouted Crocodile
Mecistops cataphractus · also called African sharp-nosed crocodile
In a shaded stream in the Congo rainforest, a slender-snouted crocodile lies motionless, its long, narrow jaws angled for a passing fish.
Overview
The slender-snouted crocodile, Mecistops cataphractus, is a Critically Endangered crocodile of rivers, forest streams, and swamps in West and Central Africa. Its narrow snout, shy habits, and steep decline through hunting make it one of Africa’s most threatened crocodilians.
A crocodile built for fish
The slender snout offers little resistance in the water, so the crocodile can sweep it sideways with great speed to catch fast-moving fish.
Status
Critically Endangered, with a declining population.
Slender-snouted Crocodile: common questions
Why does it have such a narrow snout?
The long, narrow snout sweeps sideways to snap up fish, much like the snout of a gharial.
Why is it Critically Endangered?
It is hunted for its meat and skin, and its forest wetlands are cleared and polluted.
Is it one species?
Scientists have split it into a West African species and a Central African species, both of which are threatened.
Where does the slender-snouted crocodile live?
It lives in rivers, forest streams, and swamps in West and Central Africa.