Crocodile Population in Australia: Current Estimates

Australia's saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) population is estimated at ~200,000 individuals.

Key Concentration

Kakadu National Park (Northern Territory) alone hosts approximately 50,000 – about 25% of the national total.

Conservation Context

• Protected since 1970s after near-extinction from hunting
• Remarkable recovery success story
• Range: Northern coastal regions (WA, NT, QLD)
• Freshwater crocodiles (C. johnstoni) also present but smaller/less dangerous

Population managed through monitoring, problem-crocodile removal, and public safety education.