African crocs on Animal Planet

MANILA, Philippines - At 180 million years old, the African crocodile is a specie from the giant reptile era, unlike its long-gone dinosaur cousins. Its thick, scaly, armor-like hide, razor sharp cone-shaped teeth, amazing sense of hearing and its agility in both water and on land make it a predator that inspires fear and fascination at the same time. Animal Planet’s Ferocious African Crocodiles brings viewers face-to-face with the formidable killer for an upclose look at the creature’s unique survival and predatory methods, and to meet those that share its habitat. The one-hour special premieres Sept. 22 at 10 p.m. with encores on Sept. 25, 2 p.m. and 9 p.m.; and Sept. 29, 4 p.m.

The Nile Crocodile is the undisputed king of Africa’s waterways. Moving through lakes and rivers, its population has spread across the entire continent. Up to 20 feet long and tipping the scales at 2,000 pounds, the crocodiles can stay under water and out of sight for several hours at a time like stealth submarines, waiting to attack their prey. Ferocious African Crocodiles takes a look at the hunting and eating habits of these killers.