True Crocodiles

 (Family: Crocodylidae)

The 25 species of this family are all semi-aquatic carnivorous predators, which are specially adapted for feeding underwater by modified palatine and pterygoid bones and a fleshy valve that seals off the respiratory system from the mouth when it is opened underwater. Most species have thick scaly skin. There are 2 species in Australia, the larger Saltwater Crocodile (see below) has been responsible for many fatal attacks on humans in northern Australia.