Crocodile: Evolution's Greatest Survivor.CROCODILE crocodile, large, carnivorous reptile of the order Crocodilia, found in tropical and subtropical regions. Crocodiles live in swamps or on river banks and catch their prey in the water. They have flattened bodies and tails, short legs, and powerful jaws. : Evolution's Greatest Survivor LYNNE KELLY A living relic of the past, the crocodile is at once attractive and terrifying ter·ri·fy tr.v. ter·ri·fied, ter·ri·fy·ing, ter·ri·fies 1. To fill with terror; make deeply afraid. See Synonyms at frighten. 2. To menace or threaten; intimidate. . Kelly, a science teacher and writer, takes a close look at these fierce predators, which often appear in the legends of people living near the crocs' native habitats, ranging from Africa to India and the Americas. She describes the anatomy, mating behavior, and predatory predatory pertaining to predator. predatory behavior the hunting of birds, mice and small reptiles by cats and the hunting and herding behavior of dogs, often facilitated in a pack. techniques of crocodiles and their close relatives, alligators and gharials. She notes that despite their dinosaurlike appearance, crocodiles have evolved greatly over millions of years. Although hunters have sought out crocodiles for their hides and as a source of food, they have also slain the creatures in great numbers out of sheer primal pri·mal adj. 1. Being first in time; original. 2. Of first or central importance; primary. pri·mal  i·ty n. fear.
And it's a fear well earned, claims Kelly, who describes in detail
a crocodile attack Crocodile attacks of people are not uncommon in places where crocodiles are native. Out of all wild predators who attack humans for food, the Saltwater and Nile Crocodiles are the most prolific and dangerous. . Modern-day conservationists have sought to preserve
the crocodile's habitats in an attempt to prevent its extinction.
The book brings to light many of the underappreciated characteristics of
these fascinating animals. Allen & Unwin, 2007, 272 p., b&w
images and color plates, hardcover, $24.95.
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