Info Mating:

The male attracts the female by making under water sounds and giving off a musky aroma. The male mounts the female and wraps his tail around hers. Mating occurs  under water.

Nesting:

Unlike some crocodiles, Nile crocodiles do not build nests but lay eggs in an excavation dug into the sand on the edge of a river or lake. The female guards the nest for the 3 months the eggs need to hatch.

Eggs:

The number of eggs depends on the size of the female but normal clutches range from 30 - 45 eggs. They are laid together once a year in October or November. On the farm the eggs are removed and placed, for better control, in an incubator. When about to hatch, baby crocodiles make a high pitched call and then crack the shell with a temporary "egg-tooth" on the tip of the snout.  There are between 4000 - 5000 eggs layed every year.

Sex determination:

The temperature of incubation determines the sex of the crocodiles. Temperature between 26ºC and 30ºC produces mostly females and between 30ºC and 33ºC produces mostly males.

Skins

The skins are exported to Europe and Eastern Countries where they are further cured for production of shoes, jackets, handbags etc.

For a tour of the crocodile breeding pens, contact Sandra on 0155759946 or 015-575-1425