Eastern Saltwater Croc
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Research
Creature Name: Eastern Saltwater Croc
Observations by: Gorstag Tessele of the Blue Order of the Sky, Siri'Ana Zelledae
Creature Type: Animal ((3171))
Creature Subtype: Reptile
CTS trainable: Not yet (under Team review).
Introduction
The Eastern saltwater croc is a large riparian predator that has been discovered on islands within the territory of T'Nanshi. It has a wider and longer muzzle compared to its lesser freshwater cousin, with which it easily snatches preys both on land and in water, and is considerably larger - an unsurprising trait considering the tendency of many creatures to grow to their environment. Its long, powerful tail makes it a great swimmer. Eastern saltwater crocs are extremely aggressive and territorial and should be approached carefully. Generally very letargic and found loitering in the water or basking in the sun, they will nonetheless sprint and attack on sight anything that is perceived as a threat, annoyance, or (if hungry) food.
Feeding Habits
The Eastern saltwater croc possesses all the traits of an opportunistic hypercarnivorous apex predator, feeding mostly on fish, reptiles, mammals, and various small birds surprised along the shoreline.
Disposition and Social Habits
Decidedly less social than other crocodilians, Eastern saltwater crocs should be handled carefully. For training purposes, gently rubbing their chin in long smooth strokes while remaining within line of vision has shown calming effects on these animals. They appear to nest in open areas in mounds unprotected from the sun, with females laying clutches containing many small eggs.
Habitat
These authors have observed the crocs on the shores of an island in Eastern T'Nanshi ((DM event, Wilderness server)).
Fylgia
Most compatible: Brown Bear
- Albeit limited by their reach and slower gait while on land (outside their natural environment), Eastern saltwater crocs possess great raw, adamant strength and endurance just like the brown bear.
Other notes
Crocs can't chew their food, but rather rip shreds off their meal that then swallow whole. As such, it is suggested to consider the size of meat pieces fed to a specimen that is being trained as a companion.