
Climate Change Alters Crocodile Behavior as Temperatures Rise
A new study has revealed that climate change is pushing estuarine crocodiles in Australia to their limits, forcing them to change their behavior in response to rising temperatures. The research, published in Current Biology, suggests that higher temperatures are reducing the reptiles’ diving ability and increasing their need to cool off.
Crocodiles Struggling in the Heat
Crocodiles are ectothermic (cold-blooded) animals, meaning they rely on external environments to regulate their body temperature. While they usually thrive in warm climates, rising global temperatures are pushing them closer to dangerous thermal limits.
Researchers analyzed 203 crocodiles and found that since 2008, their highest body temperatures have risen by 0.55°C. The study noted that many of these crocodiles ...