Saltwater Crocodiles, scientifically known as Crocodylus Porosus, previously inhabited areas in Vietnam and southern China. However, they became extinct there due to human activities impacting their natural environment. Today, these creatures make their homes in specific parts of the world, including India.
About the Saltwater Crocodile: A Brief Overview
The Saltwater Crocodile holds the title as the largest amongst the 23 extant or living species of crocodilians. This vast group encompasses true crocodiles, alligators, and caimans. Fondly referred to as ‘saltie,’ it is also known as the estuarine crocodile, hinting at its preferred habitat – the brackish waters of estuaries. Not restricted only to such areas, it can tolerate saltwater conditions in oceans and apply tidal currents to travel considerable distances across the open ocean.
Current Habitats of the Saltwater Crocodile
These days, one can locate the ‘saltie’ predominantly in three locations within India – the Sundarbans, Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It shares the status of being the native crocodile in the Indian Subcontinent with two others – the mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) and the gharial (Gavialis gangeticus).
Alongside India, the Saltwater Crocodile’s range extends to Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the Solomon Islands. Historically, their presence was noted from the Seychelles and Kerala, India in the west through to southeastern China, Palau, and Vanuatu in the east.
Threats Faced by the Species
The survival of Saltwater Crocodiles is challenged by a host of threats. Key among these are habitat destruction, fragmentation, and transformation. Fishing activities also pose a significant risk as they often result in unintended crocodile casualties. Another notable threat comes from the use of crocodile parts for medicinal purposes, which fuels illegal hunting.
Protection Status of Saltwater Crocodiles
Despite facing several threats, the Saltwater Crocodile is listed as of “Least Concern” on the IUCN List of Threatened Species. Furthermore, it features in Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), except for the populations in Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, which are categorized under Appendix II. In India, they are provided considerable protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, being listed in Schedule I of the Act. This means their hunting, trading, or any harm caused to them is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.
By adopting effective conservation strategies under these legal protections, we can hope to safeguard the existence of these fascinating creatures, ensuring they continue to grace our planet with their majesty.
