Teeth are designed for holding rather than cutting, but they help to penetrate and crush the prey within the incredibly powerful jaws. Swallowing must occur above the water surface, or water will flood the lungs and the crocodile may drown. The typical crocodilian feeding strategy is to wait close to the water's edge and pounce upon prey which ventures too close. Larger animals will actively follow and move towards potential prey items, but in most cases the animal doesn't reveal itself until just before the attack. Stones and pebbles are often ingested to aid digestion - crushing food by a grinding action within the gizzard of the stomach.
Stones also act as a ballast, which is important in maintaining bouyancy.
Territorial behaviour relies upon a number of subtle cues, such as changes in body posture and low-frequency vocalisation. Violence is generally avoided, as serious injuries and death can occur in larger animals. Nesting Saltwater crocodiles are mound nesters, using a variety of grasses and other materials. By creating a mound, the eggs are raised about the ground water table, and the risk of flooding is slightly diminished. Yet, many nests are lost to flooding each year.