But below the water their eyesight is far from perfect. They can't focus as well, and a third, protective eyelid, called the nictitating membrane, is not completely transparent, so when submerged, crocodiles must also use other senses, including the ability to detect pressure changes around the jaw. Their inner ear is well developed, and a movable flap to prevent water from coming in covers their external ear. Back to Croc Throat They may not speak words, but crocodiles do vocalize. Adults bellow in courtship and hiss and snarl at unwanted guests.
Babies make chirping sounds as calls for help.
Back to Croc Calm Water Crocodiles prefer protected waters, as rough waters make it difficult to both keep their snouts above water and swim at the same time. Generally, crocodiles wait until their prey gets close enough to be taken with a lightning-fast movement. They can take down animals as heavy as they are. Nile crocodiles like this one will eat buffaloes and humans, although humans are not their natural prey. They also scavenge meals, stealing other crocodiles' and other species' kills, and cooperate in hunting, sharing in the kill.