Mangrove forests form the interface between marine and terrestrial environments. Consequently, animals from both these environments can be found in the mangroves. Few animals use mangroves as their only habitat. Some live primarily in the mangroves, while others move in and out of the mangroves seasonally, at different stages of their life cycle or even depending on the tide.
Saltwater crocodiles are one of the most infamous inhabitants of mangrove areas.
They do not generally nest in mangroves but are found nesting in vegetation fringing mangrove areas and vegetation where rivers adjoin coastal flood plains. On the rising tide these reptiles come into the mangroves to feed. Juvenile crocodiles feed on crabs, prawns, mudskippers and other small fish. As they mature their diet changes to include large mud crabs, birds and mammals. Sea snakes are common visitors to mangrove forests as are terrestrial snakes.