Saltwater Crocodiles

(Crocodylus porosus)

Distribution : The saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) which in Sarawak is sometimes refer to as the 'Bujang Senang' or the 'happy bachelor' occurs widely in coastal swamps and rivers from Southeast Asia to Australia and the islands of the Western Pacific. In Sarawak this species is commonly found in lowland areas. Though primarily found along wide sluggish rivers and brackish swamps like the Batang Lupar and its tributaries, Sarawak mangrove areas, Batang Samarahan etc, the Crocodylus porosus also ranges far up major rivers into very dissimilar habitats. Their hatchlings have been seen in the Loagan Bunut area, Sarawak's only natural lake which drains into Sungai Teru riverine system in the 4th Division. The species was also reported to have been spotted at Upper Belaga and as far up the Kelauh, a small freshwater tributary of Batang Lupar.

Food habit: Hatchlings feed mainly on small crabs and prawns which they normally capture at water edge. However adult crocodiles probably feed principally on fish, through sometimes become opportunists feeders and tend to prefer dead or dying prey. Preys are taken alive, unless of small size, are generally left to rot before being taken.

Breeding Behavior: The species tend to be aggressive during mating season or when guarding its nesting area. They tend to be territorial in behavior and usually seen attacking any incoming object including human being to their territory. Due to the gentle slope of its river bank, Batang Lupar, is one of the popular nesting ground for this reptile.