Crocodile feeding
The Ewaso Nyiro River is home to large numbers of Nile crocodile, which can regularly be seen basking on the sandbanks that line the river. As well as viewing these reptiles from the bar or from the river bank, guests may like to see them at particularly close quarters by attending the ‘crocodile feeding sessions' which take place (under close supervision) at a special site on the river bank - in the late afternoon (check with reception for exact timing).About the Nile crocodile
Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus
Swahili Mamba
Crocodile is the common name for members of the crocodilian order (including alligators, caimans and gavials). The Nile crocodile is one of the best known of the 12 species of crocodile. Africa's largest reptile, it can reach lengths of up to 6 meters and weigh up to 1 metric tonne. Adult crocodile have no predators, though territorial disputes between males can cause serious injuries. Hippos will also occasionally nudge a crocodile off a sandbank if it threatens their calves. Well adapted as a predator, the crocodile has powerful jaws and tail, both of which are used to kill their prey. Olive or dull grey in colour, strictly carnivorous, cold blooded and requiring a freshwater habitat, crocodiles must bask in the sun during the day so as to maintain a constant body temperature. When breeding the female lays between 30 and 40 eggs which hatch after 90 days. The hatchlings (which hatch April to May) are guarded by the female.
Bony plates called ‘osteoderms' form a kind of armour in the thick skin of the crocodile. It also has 30-40 teeth in each jaw, all of which are set into sockets in the jawbones, and interlock when the mouth is closed. The fourth tooth in each side of the lower jaw protrudes when the mouth is closed - giving the reptile its evil ‘smile'. When killing their prey, crocodiles often use their tail to knock the prey into the water, where they grip them with their interlocking jaws - allowing no escape. Then, the crocodile will rotate rapidly in the water, tearing its victim apart. On land the crocodile can move surprisingly quickly - either on four legs, or using a rapid belly crawl. The Nile crocodile was revered by certain ancient Egyptian sects and mummies of crocodiles can still be seen in the Nile temples.
