Record-Breaking Nile Crocodile: The 21-Foot Giant of 1905

The longest Nile crocodile ever reliably recorded measured 6.45 meters (21 feet 2 inches). This massive specimen was shot in the Ruvuma River, Tanzania, in 1905.

Context

Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are Africa’s largest crocodilian. While adults typically range from 3.5 to 5 meters, exceptional individuals can exceed 6 meters. The 1905 record remains a benchmark in herpetology.

Verification

Measurements were taken by hunters/naturalists of the era; modern records rely on similar methods. No longer specimen has been scientifically documented since.