Crocodile Predators
Crocodile Speed
Croc/Human Interaction
Crocodile Size
Crocodile Hunting
Crocodile Defense
Alligators vs. Crocodiles
Crocodile Mothering
Crocodile Infections
Crocodile Bites
Crocs in Water
Croc Body Heat
The Crocodile Heart
Q: On Croc Infection
Do crocodiles ever get infections?
Martinique Vella Baldachino
A: Surprisingly, very few crocodiles seem to suffer from infections. We recently discovered the secret behind their remarkable ability — an antibiotic in their blood, which we call "crocodillin." Crocodiles have one of the most efficient immune systems of any animal we know, which is a real advantage for them living in bacteria-filled water and mud. Wounds are common from fights or injuries from prey, and being able to fight off potential infection is clearly very important.
The only time crocodiles suffer from infections is when they become stressed as their health declines. This affects their immune system and they can suddenly become susceptible to common bacteria they would normally shrug off. This can be seen in captive crocodiles kept in poor conditions, or wild subordinate or injured crocodiles unable to secure a territory and enough food to survive.