African Hunts Targeting The Dwarf Crocodile

The dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetrapis) is the world’s smallest living crocodile and is found in the sub-Saharan regions of West and Central Africa. This nocturnal reptile is classed as “vulnerable” according to the IUCN, with decreasing numbers and habitat, but available for game hunting safaris in several regions.

On a game hunting safari, you will look for the dwarf crocodile in rainforests and dense vegetation habitats near slow-flowing water such as rivers, swamps, streams, and pools. They are solitary hunters, that spend their days hiding in their burrows, and nights foraging for food, including frogs, toads, fish, rats, and birds.

The mating season for the dwarf crocodile is May to June, where females lay between 10-20 eggs that remain incubated for up to 100 days. When hatched, the crocodiles call for their mother who carries them to the water. These tiny crocodiles are born fully independent.

Man on his African hunts are not the only predators for this little crocodile. It counts on its list of predators larger crocodiles, birds of prey, and large mammals, such as the leopard.