What are the potential impacts of climate change on crocodiles in Australia?

Experts warn that consistently high temperatures could force crocodiles to migrate beyond their native habitats in search of shade and cooler waters, increasing the likelihood of human interaction and competition for limited resources. There are also concerns that some crocodile species may be at risk of extinction over time.

What are conservationists doing to protect crocodiles in Australia?

Conservationists have been working on creating safer environments for wildlife, such as habitat rebuilding and wetland conservation, to help animals like crocodiles survive and thrive in their natural habitats. However, researchers emphasize the need for increased advocacy for clean energy solutions and sustainable policies to prevent further environmental degradation.

Home / Environment / Crocodiles Pushed to the Brink by Australia's Relentless Heat Waves

Crocodiles Pushed to the Brink by Australia's Relentless Heat Waves

Q: How are Australian crocodiles responding to the warming climate?

Crocodiles in Australia are engaging in more cooling behaviors like seeking shade and diving deeper into the water to regulate their body temperature, but researchers are concerned these measures may not be enough to keep them safe as heat waves intensify.

27 Oct

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Summary

Crocodile body temperatures align with local heat waves in Australia
Crocodiles engage in more cooling behaviors but may not be enough
Researchers concerned crocodiles may struggle to remain in local habitats

Crocodiles Pushed to the Brink by Australia's Relentless Heat Waves

As of October 2025, new research indicates that the body temperatures of crocodiles in Australia are increasing and aligning with local heat waves. Crocodiles, known for their extreme resilience, are now being pushed to the limit by the steadily overheating planet.

A team of researchers recently tagged and tracked 203 crocodiles in Far North Queensland, Australia, seeking to understand how these reptiles respond to rising temperatures. The study found that the crocodiles have been engaging in more cooling behaviors, such as seeking shade, moving to riverbanks at night, and diving deeper into the water to regulate their body temperature. However, researchers are concerned that even these measures may not be enough to keep the crocodiles' bodies at safe and healthy levels in the future.