Could it be the biggest ever? A 20-feet long crocodile found in river Nile

Nile crocodiles are closer to 20 feet (6.10 meters) long. (Image: Rudi Hulshof)

• A 20-foot Nile crocodile was recorded, the largest ever documented by scientists
• The discovery challenges previous beliefs about Nile crocodile maximum size
• African Reptile Research Institute led studies in Burundi and Tanzania

Did our AI summary help?

A newly recorded giant has stunned scientists, reaching a jaw-dropping 21 feet, the largest ever documented. This is Nile's first largest crocodile that has ever recorded. Its sheer size and power defy belief, even among seasoned wildlife researchers.

These apex predators patrol rivers, swamps, and lakes across sub-Saharan Africa. Every glimpse of such a leviathan is a thrilling reminder of nature’s unimaginable extremes.

Gustave: A Crocodile That Became a Legend

"Gustave" is perhaps the most famous Nile crocodile ever. Reported at 20 feet long, he earned a reputation for eluding capture for decades. Scientists built a 32‑foot custom trap, yet Gustave continued to disappear. Its cunning and size fascinated locals, wildlife enthusiasts, and researchers alike. Even today, his fate remains a mystery, sparking curiosity worldwide.

Who Conducted the Research and Where?

The study was conducted by a team of wildlife biologists from the African Reptile Research Institute, based in Burundi and Tanzania. Field teams tracked crocodile populations along the Ruzizi and Mara rivers, using drones, GPS tags and camera traps.

Their goal was to understand growth patterns, habitat use, and ecological impact of Nile crocodiles. The research required months of careful observation in remote, challenging river environments. It combined traditional fieldwork with modern technology to capture unprecedented measurements.

When Size Becomes Legendary

The largest reliably measured Nile crocodiles reach around 20 feet, rivalled only by saltwater crocodiles. Ancient relatives like Sarcosuchus were even larger, reaching 35 feet, dwarfing today’s giants. Gustave remains a symbol of nature’s extremes, blending fact and folklore. His sightings remind us that sometimes reality is stranger than fiction.

Why this Finding Surprised Scientists?

Scientists were astonished by the sheer scale of the giant crocodile. Measuring 21 feet long, it exceeds previously verified Nile crocodiles by several feet. Its health, agility and survival skills at such enormous size defied expectations.

Even veteran herpetologists commented that such a specimen is “almost prehistoric in proportions.” The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the maximum growth limits of Nile crocodiles.

Life as a Nile Crocodile

These reptiles are apex predators, ambushing prey with incredible patience. They control populations of fish, birds, and mammals in their habitats. Older, larger males dominate riverside territories, ensuring survival of the fittest. Despite their fearsome reputation, they are vital to ecosystem balance. Each crocodile tells a story of evolution, survival and adaptation.