Jackson Creek Middle School
Interesting Facts About Siamese Crocodiles
by Tessa P.
Crocodylus siamensis is the scientific name of the Siamese crocodile.
In Cambodia and Thailand Siamese crocodiles can be found in the wild. They are bred and held captive in those two countries and to a lesser extent in Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, North American zoos, Europe, Russia, and Japan.
Wild Siamese crocodiles are known to eat fish. They probably also eat, snakes, insects, frogs, small mammals, and other small prey species. Siamese crocodiles in captivity are also fed chickens with the feathers removed.
The female Siamese crocodile can lay eggs once a year in April or May.
While in captivity the female Siamese crocodile lays 20 to 50 eggs at a time.
Scientists have found only about 200 Siamese crocodiles living in the wild. Some scientists estimate that there may be up to 4,000 in the wild. There are many thousands in captivity in zoos and on farms. Many of the ones in captivity are hybrids often with the Indopacific crocodile.
Destruction of habitat and hunting almost drove the Siamese crocodile to extinction.
The species has been bred extensively in captivity. Commercial use and management has also become a viable conservation strategy. The remaining natural habitat of the Siamese crocodile is also being preserved.
The skin of the Siamese crocodile is one of the most valuable reptile hides. The skin has small to medium size scales with no osteoderms or bony bumps.
Female Siamese crocodiles "roar" when they are approached by other adults.
Silver Team Endangered Animals Web Pages
Last updated on 2/11/2003