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Pam Gould, age 10, of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, for her question:

Does the crocodile have any enemies?

The toothy crocodiles have a proud family tree that dates back to the days of the dinosaurs. They have thrived for millions of years after their huge dinosaur relatives failed to survive. One by one they have overcome or out lasted most of their natural enemies. Yet we are told that our crocodiles are dwindling, and their ancient family may be in danger of extinction. This seems strange because the toothy fellows enjoy life in suitable swamps of sluggish water, where fishes, small game and all sorts of other foods are plentiful.

Mrs. Crocodile lays round reptile eggs in a pile of decaying vegetation and stands guard until the babies hatch. It is true that sharp eyed raccoons and other hungry enemies sometimes outwit her and raid the nest. Some of the small crocodiles also are eaten. But few creatures attack a grown crocodile, and in nature the fierce fellow has practically no enemies. However, he is not fierce enough or clever enough to outwit Man the Hunter. And man, his only serious enemy, has slaughtered him without mercy    just to steal his durable hide to make shoes and handbags.

 

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