Buzz
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In 2010, a team of researchers ventured into the Abanda caves, nestled within Gabon's lush rainforest. Amidst a diverse ecosystem teeming with bats, snakes, moths, spiders, crickets, scorpions, and various other insects and arachnids, they stumbled upon an unexpected discovery. As one scientist navigated a tight passage, his headlamp illuminated two large, gleaming eyes. To his astonishment, he found himself staring at a crocodile. Before he could react, the creature swiftly retreated into the shadows of the tunnel.
While cave-dwelling crocodiles are uncommon, they are not entirely unprecedented. These reptiles have been documented seeking refuge in caves and caverns in regions like Madagascar and Mauritania. However, when the researchers managed to locate and capture several of the Abanda crocodiles, they discovered that these creatures were unique not only in their habitat choice but also in other distinctive traits.
Their skin had a distinct orange hue.
Many of these creatures appeared to be permanently confined to their subterranean environment, discovered in sections of the cave system accessible only through a 7-meter-deep pit. Although some crocodiles could roam more freely, the genetic and physical distinctions—such as broader heads, diminished eyesight, and their unusual orange coloration—indicated that the cave-dwelling population had been isolated for several millennia.
Researchers hypothesize that the caves might have been easier to access in the past, allowing a few crocodiles to seek refuge there. Over time, sediment likely filled the entrances, trapping them inside and severing their connection to the outside world.
The cave crocodiles, numbering around 20 during the expedition, inhabit total darkness and are nearly blind. They sustain themselves by preying on their underground companions, primarily bats, insects, and a significant amount of algae. Their unique orange coloration could stem from various factors: physiological adaptations to darkness, their diet, or chemical reactions with algae or other substances in the water or on the cave walls.
While definitive answers remain elusive due to ongoing research, you can catch a glimpse of the scientists at work. A documentary crew joined the expedition and released a film last year for French television. A trailer is available here.
