Henry, the world’s oldest known living crocodile, turns 124 in 2024. Residing in South Africa’s Crocworld since 1985, he’s fathered over 10,000 offspring and continues to amaze scientists with his remarkable longevity and vitality.
Meet Henry: Henry, who is a Nile crocodile, was 124 years old on 16 December 2024. He resides at South Africa’s Crocworld Conservation Centre and is considered to be the current oldest living crocodile in the world. (@TomFulop/X)
From the Wilds of Botswana: Henry was caught in Botswana’s Okavango Delta in 1903. His birthdate is not known, but his age is estimated at around 1900, which makes him more than a century old. (Image: @CharlesWieand/X)
His Home at Crocworld: Henry has been living safely in captivity at Crocworld since 1985. There, he is protected and well cared for and has a serene environment that probably has contributed to his longevity. (Image: @CharlesWieand/X)
A Record-Breaking Father: In spite of his age, Henry has fathered more than 10,000 children. His active contribution to reproduction stunned conservationists and assisted in keeping the population of crocodiles at the centre thriving. (Image: @AMAZlNGNATURE/X)
A Gentle Giant in Numbers: Henry is approximately 700 kilograms (1,540 pounds) and 5 metres (16.4 feet) long. He’s one of the biggest crocodiles on the planet in captivity today and continues to astonish visitors. (Image: @pubity/X)
Why Crocodiles Live So Long: Biologists attribute the longevity of reptiles such as Henry to slower metabolisms. Their cold-bloodedness serves to save energy, which could slow down ageing and extend their lifespan. (Image: @VladLiliac/X)
The Power of Crocodile Biology: Crocodiles are believed to possess robust immune systems and particular blood proteins that assist in combating infection. This could be one reason Henry has lived so long. (@Visceral9000/X)
Captivity Adds Years: Safe surroundings contribute significantly towards the longevity of animals. In the absence of predators, disease, or competition, animals such as Henry can potentially live for decades. (@DrWildlife/X)
A Living Mystery for Science: Scientists still haven’t fully figured out why crocodiles live so long. It is hard to study animals like Henry because they tend to live longer than scientists studying them. (@TomFulop/X)
Celebrating Henry’s Remarkable Life: Henry’s life is one of survival and resilience. At 124 years of age, he keeps scientists and animal enthusiasts all over the globe amazed with his vigor and mystique. (Image: @AnshumanVishno1/X)
https://www.moneycontrol.com/science/meet-henry-the-world-s-oldest-living-crocodile-who-has-fathered-10-000-babies-photo-gallery-13051072-5.html
