Stamps with the theme Crocodiles

The word crocodile comes from the Ancient Greek word for lizard. Crocodiles tend to congregate in freshwater habitats such as rivers and lakes and are sometimes found in brackish water. They feed mostly on fish, reptiles and mammals, and also eat particular molluscs and crustaceans. They have streamlined bodies that enable them to swim swiftly. Because they have webbed feet they have a speed advantage in shallow water over prey animals which come to the water to drink.

Crocodiles are ambush hunters, lying very still waiting for their prey to come close, then attacking swiftly. As cold-blooded predators, they have a very slow metabolism, and thus can survive long periods without food. In many parts of the world the crocodile is protected, but in some places they are farmed commercially, as crocodile skin is highly valued. The skin can be used to make leather goods such as shoes, handbags and watch straps, whilst crocodile meat is also considered a delicacy.