For hunters wishing to target a crocodile on a game hunting adventure, the West African crocodile (Crocodylus suchus) is a worthy opponent. This mighty predator is related to the larger and more aggressive Nile crocodile. Although not as aggressive, fatal attacks by West African crocodiles have been recorded. It is listed by the IUCN as being “vulnerable” as its habitat is under threat and disappearing. It is found in many countries in West and Central Africa and is available as a target on African game hunting safaris.

The West African crocodile’s habitat consists of forested regions including lagoons, wetlands, and swamps. It is active day and night, staying in caves or digging itself a burrow for shelter. Although active in both day and night periods, it is more nocturnal, using daylight hours to warm its cold-blooded body in the sun.

In terms of breeding, the West African crocodile lays 40-60 eggs a year, with an incubation period of 60-100 days. The temperature of the nest will determine the sex of the crocodiles.

Row upon row of razor-sharp teeth confirms its status as an apex predator, with fish, insects, crabs, small mammals, and snakes falling victim to this reptile.

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Crocodylus suchus

Male Weight:
200-550 pounds

Male Length:
6ft 7 in – 9ft 10 in

Incubation:
90-100 days

Range:
Found across West and Central Africa

Life span:
45 years

Size and Appearance

Look for a large crocodile on your game hunting safaris; it may be hiding in the water or lying catching some sun on a riverbank somewhere. These reptiles measure between 6ft 7 in, to 9ft 10in and weigh between 200-550 pounds, although larger specimens up to 660 pounds have been recorded. This apex predator’s eyes, ears, and nostrils are situated on the top of its head, allowing it to glide through the water easily and stealthily in search of prey. Its scales are brown to olive in color, with eyes that reflect at night, making it easy to spot. Its webbed feet and large, muscular tail allow it to easily navigate the water in search of some unfortunate prey.

Hunting Methods

Crocodiles are hunted using a blind or through a challenging walk-and-stalk method. e.

Challenges and Rewards

The challenge in targeting this pre-historic reptile on a game hunting adventure is its ability to not only camouflage itself but also the 30 minutes that it can stay underwater, with a swimming speed of 20 miles per hour. If you miss that first shot or rattle them, they may disappear, never to be seen again. While you are on your hunting safari in Africa and you make the shot and harvest the crocodile, it gives the hunter a great sense of pride, knowing that they have come eye-to-eye with an apex predator and won.

Rifles and Requirements

This predator needs to be hunted with an accurate, high-powered rifle. Shots will be at the brain, through a thick skull, or the vertebrae. A 7mm. 300-win mag or .375 is highly recommended, especially when hunting larger crocodiles.