What Are the Adaptations of a Crocodile?
Some adaptations of the crocodile include the ability to regulate its metabolism, its strong stomach, its armored body and its keen senses. These adaptations have allowed the crocodile to survive for millions of years as the closest creatures the modern world has to dinosaurs.
The crocodile is a cold-blooded animal. This important survival adaptation means that it can regulate its own metabolism by cooling off in rivers or sunbathing for warmth. Because of this regulation, the crocodile can go without food for long periods of time, up to one year, without ill effects. What food it does intake is metabolized efficiently and stored as energy.
When the crocodile does eat, its remarkably acidic stomach helps it to digest almost anything. It feeds on whatever it can find, from birds to crustaceans and mammals. Furthermore, its stomach breaks down all parts of its food, including the especially tough bones, shells and hooves of its prey.
The crocodile has especially keen senses that help it to find prey. For instance, when it goes underwater, protective membranes cover the eyeballs without limiting its underwater vision. Its strong sense of smell and hearing help it not only to avoid threatening situations, but also to guide it to prey.
