Meet the largest crocodiles to ever exist since the times of dinosaurs

Time of India

25-06-2025

When it comes to giant reptiles, few creatures can be as scary and strong as crocodiles, a massive aquatic predator that is found in tropical waters and wetlands across Southeast Asia, India, and northern Australia, which have been around for millions of years.
They are strong and also surprisingly intelligent. With powerful jaws, huge size, and aggressive territorial instincts, they are considered to be at the top of the food chain.
But their story is more than just about danger. These animals have an extraordinary biology that allows them to grow throughout their lives, meaning the older they get, the larger they become, especially talking about the saltwater crocodile, popularly called the 'salties'.
They've been studied, feared, hunted, and even admired. They do not just live in saltwater, as their name might suggest, but also in rivers, estuaries, and freshwater lakes, adapting to various environments with ease.
Saltwater crocodiles are the largest living reptiles and among Earth's most formidable predators, having roamed the planet since the age of dinosaurs. Their slow, lifelong growth allows them to reach huge sizes.
While most adult male salties measure around 15–17 ft and weigh up to 500 kg, exceptional giants can grow even larger. But these monstrous specimens are rare and often fall victim to hunting for skin and meat.
Lolong: the largest crocodile
In 2011, 'Lolong' was captured in the Philippines and measured 6.17 m (20 ft 3 in) and weighed about 1,075 kg, which made him set a record for the longest crocodile ever recorded in captivity. Guinness World Records confirmed this in June 2012.
However, Lolong died in February 2013 from pneumonia and cardiac arrest, with fungal infection and captivity stress aggravating his condition. His legend lives on as a proof to the size salties can reach.
Cassius: The next big salty
After Lolong's death, Cassius, an Australian saltie measuring 5.48 m (18 ft) and weighing over 1,300 kg, reclaimed the Guinness World Record. He lived in captivity until his death in November 2024.
A large 'salty' in Odisha?
In 2006, Guinness World Records acknowledged reports of a massive male saltwater crocodile, estimated at 7.01 meters (23 feet) long and weighing around 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds), living in Bhitarkanika Park in Odisha, India.
Park officials observed this crocodile for over ten years, from 2006 to 2016.
However, because the croc has never been safely captured and measured with a tape, these numbers remain unverified.
Why does size matter?
Saltwater crocodiles grow slowly throughout their lives, meaning older individuals have had time to become colossal. Their immense size boosts hunting capability as apex predators. These crocs are at the top of the food chain, as smart, fast, and extremely territorial. Their powerful bite allows them to ambush prey, including humans, especially in shared habitats.