Top 7 Record-Breaking Crocodiles in Size

Crocodiles are remarkably large reptiles. A male American crocodile can grow up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) in length, though they are usually around 14 feet (4.3 meters). Some extraordinary crocodylians, however, make even these impressive measurements seem small.

In fact, one of the largest crocodiles ever was so enormous that a website described it as "bus-sized." Take a moment to picture that.

As we explore both extinct and living species of the largest crocodiles ever documented, be grateful this article can't leap out of the screen at you.

3 of the Largest Extinct Crocodylians

Measuring extinct crocodiles is more challenging than measuring living ones. "Estimating the body size of extinct crocodyliforms can be difficult due to the varying body proportions of different subgroups, particularly those far removed from modern crocodylians," as noted by researchers in a 2022 study.

"However, this challenge is reduced when skeletal measurements from living crocodylians are used to estimate the sizes of their extinct relatives. Many studies have employed this method, using measurements such as femoral length, vertebral dimensions, cranial width, orbito-dorsal cranial length, and dorsal cranial length to estimate body size."

Below are some of the largest extinct crocodiles and their estimated sizes.

3. Mourasuchus

Despite its massive size — the mourasuchus measured approximately 21.7 feet (6.6 meters) in length — this species probably didn't hunt large prey. With its flattened, duck-like skull and tiny teeth, it likely lacked the necessary bite force to tackle bigger animals.

2. Sarcosuchus imperator

This enormous reptile thrived during the Cretaceous period in Africa. Fossil evidence suggests that scientists estimate this crocodile reached lengths of 11 to 12 meters (36 to 39 feet) and weighed around 8 metric tons (8.8 U.S. tons).

These colossal crocodiles possessed elongated, powerful jaws, ideal for preying on fish and even dinosaurs. "They appear to have targeted almost anything within their reach," Dr. Mark Young, a vertebrate paleontology expert, told the BBC.

"By the time they grew to their maximum size, they likely became apex predators capable of hunting almost anything," he added. "It's unclear whether they could lunge out of the water to catch dinosaurs or if they primarily targeted large fish in rivers. However, at their enormous size, they might have been capable of both."

1. Purussaurus brasiliensis

During the middle to late Miocene era, the Purussaurus brasiliensis roamed South America. Researchers believe it grew up to 41 feet (12.5 meters) long, weighed around 8.4 metric tons, and faced no natural rivals:

4 of the Largest Living Crocodiles

Although modern crocodiles may not match the colossal sizes of their prehistoric counterparts, they remain incredibly powerful and awe-inspiring creatures.

4. American Crocodile

The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) can grow up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) in length, though they are more commonly around 14 feet (4.3 meters). This impressive reptile inhabits regions such as Florida, Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico, Central America, and South America.

An American crocodile's diet includes small mammals, crabs, snakes, turtles, birds, and fish. While adults face no natural predators, their hatchlings are vulnerable to other animals.

3. Nile Crocodile

One of the largest crocodile species, Crocodylus niloticus, averages 16 feet (4.9 meters) but can grow up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). This crocodile features a pointed snout and visible teeth even when its mouth is closed. Native to Africa, they have occasionally been sighted in unexpected places, such as the Everglades National Park in Florida.

Crocodile farms raise these reptiles for food and leather, with the Nile crocodile being a common species bred in such facilities.

2. Orinoco Crocodile

The Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius) can grow up to 22 feet (6.7 meters). Hunters often target these endangered crocs due to their impressive size. In Venezuela and Colombia, they are found within protected areas.

1. Saltwater Crocodile

The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) usually measures around 17 feet (5.2 meters) but can grow up to 23 feet (7 meters). Also called the estuarine crocodile, this species is recognized as the largest crocodile in the world. They are commonly found in regions of Asia and Australia.

The biggest saltwater crocodile ever kept in captivity was Lolong, measuring 20.24 feet (6.17 meters). Lolong passed away in 2013.

The Current Record Holder

Crocodiles can also achieve Guinness World Records. Cassius, an Australian saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), earned the record for the largest living crocodile in captivity in 2011, measuring 17 feet, 11.75 inches (5.48 meters) at the time.

Cassius lived at Marineland Melanesia on Green Island, Australia. He passed away on November 2, 2024. Scientists believe he could have been born as early as 1903, making him over 100 years old at the time of his death.