Saltwater crocodiles can grow up to 6 or 7 metres long — longer than a large car — and can weigh as much as a small car too. They are incredibly powerful swimmers and can be found in rivers, mangrove swamps, coastal areas and even far out at sea. Their skin is patterned with bumpy scales that act like armour.
In Timorese legend, the island of Timor itself was formed from the body of a giant crocodile. The story goes that a young boy helped a tired crocodile reach the sea, and in gratitude the crocodile grew bigger and bigger until it became the island, carrying the boy and his descendants on its back forever. This legend is one reason why Timorese people feel such a strong bond with crocodiles.
Because of this cultural respect, Timorese communities traditionally keep a safe distance from places where crocodiles live. Elders teach children from a young age where crocodiles might be found and how to behave around rivers and coastlines. This traditional knowledge is a form of wildlife safety that has kept people and animals living alongside each other for generations.
Saltwater crocodiles are important for the health of rivers and coasts — as top predators they help keep fish populations balanced. Scientists work with local communities to track where crocodiles live so that both people and crocodiles can stay safe.