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An ancient animal whose ancestors have roamed the earth since the time of the dinosaurs, the crocodile has survived continental drift, ice ages and the loss of once-prolific species. Today, the Australian saltie, the Chinese alligator, the Indian gharial and the black caiman are just some of the twenty-three species of crocodilian descendants found across the world.
Human interaction with these dangerous yet intriguing animals has been reflected in myths and legends dating back to earliest recorded history. Feared or revered, crocodilians have always fascinated. Sadly, many breeds of this seemingly indestructible species are now facing extinction because of human activity, intrusion into their habitats and retaliation for the threat they pose to humans. This is the fascinating and extraordinary story of the crocodile, one of evolution's greatest survivors.
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. Encountering the crocodile
2. Around the world, in life and legend
3. The crocodilian, in form and function
4. Studying the crocodile
5. In search of the ancient
6. Hunting the crocodile
7. Crocodile attacks
8. Farming crocodiles
9. Showing them off
10. Crocodiles in popular culture
Appendix 1: Classification of crocodilian species
Appendix 2: Major crocodile research, farming and tourist locations
Notes on sources
Bibliography
Index
Lynne Kelly has been teaching science, mathematics and computing for over 30 years. She holds degrees in engineering, education and computing.
"Superbly readable and exceptionally well-researched."
- Choice
