Crocodile: Evolution's Greatest Survivor

Science News,  July 21, 2007  

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CROCODILE: Evolution's Greatest Survivor LYNNE KELLY

A living relic of the past, the crocodile is at once attractive and terrifying. 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 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 fear. And it's a fear well earned, claims Kelly, who describes in detail a crocodile attack. 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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