Description
The Orinoco Crocodile ranks among the largest living species of crocodilian and reptile. Typical measurements for males are 3.6-4.8 m (13-16 ft), females are from 3 to 3.3 m (9.9-11 ft). Typical weight for mature females is beetween 225-317 kg (500-700 lbs) and 380-635 kg (837-1400 lbs) for males. The largest specimen reported was shot in 1800, and allegedly measured 6.6 m (22 ft). This was unconfirmed, and modern Orinoco crocodiles have not been reported to exceed 5 m (16.5 ft) in length. It is one of the largest crocodiles in the Americas, and while American Crocodiles and Black Caimans approach similar dimensions, the average weight of the Orinoco Crocodile is slightly higher.
The Orinoco crocodile can be recognised by its relatively long snout, which is narrower than the somewhat similar-looking American crocodile's. This species generally has a pale tan hide, though at least three coloration variations are known, with some almost completely yellowish and some a dark brownish-gray. It has been noted that the skin can change colour over long periods of time; this phenomenon has been recorded in other species that can gradually change the amount of melanin in their skin. These crocodiles have dark brown markings, which present as more pronounced bands in younger specimens and as scattered markings on mature ones.
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