Courtship and Nesting Behviour of the Freshwater Crocodile, Crocodylus johnstoni, under COntrolled Conditions

Abstract

Freshwater crocodiles were maintained in captivity, and during the 1978 breeding season the reproductive behaviour of two pairs was observed. During 23 days, 14 courtships were recorded. Typical courtship activity is described. Nesting activities always occurred between sundown and 2130 h. During incubation females visited their respective nests regularly but did not appear to be protective. The growth rate of developing embryos is described and nest opening by the female recorded.