Why do crocodiles often lie with their mouths open?

Crocodiles are cold blooded reptiles prevalent in tropical regions of Africa, the Americas, Asia and Australia. They are members of the order Crocodilia that includes alligators, gharials and caimans.

Ever seen crocodiles resting or sitting with their mouth open?

This is a common practice among crocodiles that is known [ihc-hide-content ihc_mb_type=”show” ihc_mb_who=”2,3,5″ ihc_mb_template=”1″ ] as gaping. Crocodiles are unable to regulate their body temperatures internally as warm blooded animals.

Crocodiles also lack the presence of sweat glands. Hence, gaping is performed as a mean to keep them cool and avoid the occurrence of overheating.

Moreover, it is rather beneficial for crocodiles living within the range of the Egyptian plover or “crocodile bird”.

This bird comes along when a crocodile gapes and utilises its sharp little beak, similar to a toothpick and removes the bits of meat from between a crocodile’s teeth. This feeds the plover and removes parasites from the crocodile’s mouth.