You may have heard the expression “crocodile tears” and wondered if crocodiles actually cry. Interestingly, they do—but not out of emotion. Crocodiles shed tears for physiological reasons, such as lubricating their eyes or excreting excess salt from their bodies.
The myth that crocodiles cry while eating dates back centuries. It likely arose from their appearance during feeding, when air trapped in their sinuses creates pressure on the tear glands, causing tears to flow. This natural reaction inspired the phrase “crocodile tears,” now used to describe fake or insincere sadness—a meaning made popular by writers like William Shakespeare.
Why Crocodiles Shed Tears
Crocodiles produce tears mainly to:
Lubricate their eyes:Just like humans, they need to clean and moisten their eyes, especially after being out of water.
Remove salt:As reptiles that often live in saline environments, crocodiles use their tear ducts to release excess salt.
Relieve feeding pressure: When eating, air pressure in their sinuses can push against the tear glands, leading to visible tears.
Crocodiles in Nigeria
Crocodiles are widespread across Nigeria, inhabiting rivers, lakes, creeks, and swamps. They are particularly found in the states around the Niger Delta—covering states such as Bayelsa, Delta, Ondo and Rivers—where wetlands provide ideal habitats. In Northern and Central Nigeria, large water bodies like the Kaduna River also host notable crocodile populations, giving Kaduna its nickname,
Croc City.
Agulu Lake in Anambra State is another famous location known for its large, sacred crocodile population revered by locals. In the Borgu Sector of Niger State, crocodiles thrive in rivers like Oli and Nano, where studies have confirmed their presence.
Species Found in Nigeria
Three main species inhabit Nigerian waters:
1. Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)
2. Long-snouted crocodile (C. cataphractus)
3. West African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis)
Nile crocodiles often prefer forest edges, sandy or rocky banks, and river valleys for basking and nesting, while the smaller dwarf species favor dense swamps and creeks.
So yes, crocodiles do cry—but not from sorrow. Their tears are nature’s way of keeping these ancient reptiles healthy and thriving.
