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| There is a large population of marsh crocodile or mugger in Gir National Park, which is among the 40 species of reptiles and amphibians found in the park. The large water bodies at the park like the Kamleshwar dam houses several crocodiles and birds. There is also a crocodile breeding farm in the park. The farm is located near the Sinh Sadan Lodge at Sasan. Here crocodiles are bred and released into the wild. |
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| Mugger crocodiles have the broadest snouts of all the crocodiles, giving them the appearance of the American alligator. The head is relatively flat on the top, with the eyes, ears and nostrils all being on the same plane. This allows the crocodiles to see, hear, and smell while almost completely submerged underwater. They are fair sized crocodiles, reaching maximum length of 16 ft. (5 mtrs.) and having an average length of 13 ft. (3.9 mtrs). The males are generally larger than the females. Mugger crocodiles have life spans of 40+ years. Colour is generally light tan in juveniles, with black cross banding on body and tail. Adults are generally grey to brown, with little banding remaining. Mugger crocodiles are excellent swimmers, using their flat tail to propel them. |
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