AL AIN // A group of the world’s smallest and one of the rarest species of crocodiles has gone on display at Al Ain Zoo.
The arrival of the American dwarf crocodiles is part of a collaboration project between Al Ain Zoo and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall.
Classified as endangered by International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the crocodiles grow to no more than 1.6 metres and a weight of about 30 kilograms. Infants are yellow with a brown tint, but they turn dark brown as they mature.
With a diet that consists mainly of fish, American dwarf crocodiles generally eat twice a week, although they can survive up to two months without food by lying motionless to conserve energy.
American dwarf crocodiles are timid and even-tempered by nature, unlike their relatives, the African dwarf crocodile.
The African species, despite being the same size, tend to be more aggressive and easily agitated.
The new arrivals can be seen on exhibit at the zoo’s reptile house. The zoo also displays the largest crocodiles in the world, the grey saltwater species that can weigh up to 2,000kg and reach approximately 8 metres in length.
“The addition of the endangered American dwarf crocodiles falls directly in line with our commitment to wildlife preservation and conservation, as we continue working with local, regional and international partners to drive unified, coordinated efforts in this sphere,” said Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, director general of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain.
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