Adult Size: They can reach a maximum size around 13 feet long (4 meters).

Headshape: Squamosal horns are not as large as C. niloticus.

Appearance: They are more uniform and drab grey in coloration when compared to C. niloticus.

Nuchal Clusters: The scale pattern is 4 x 2 with two large pairs of post-occipitals and a small pair of post-nuchals.

Flanks: Similar to the C. niloticus, however the rows and scales are not as nicely laid out. (See the Flank Comparison section.)

Other Notes: A medium-sized crocodile inhabiting central and western Africa.

STATUS: Least Concern

*Compare with Crocodylus niloticus

Modern science overlooked the differences between these two species of crocodile in Africa for years, but research now indicates that the ancient Egyptians recognized one crocodile that was larger and aggressive, and another that was smaller and less aggressive. They considered the West African crocodile sacred and even raised them in the temples. Some recent discoveries of crocodile mummies have been unearthed, with the possibility of the two crocodile species in the same burial chamber.