The Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius), also known as the caimán llanero, is a reptile endemic to the Orinoco region, primarily inhabiting the rivers and floodplains of the Llanos in Colombia and Venezuela. It is considered one of the largest crocodiles in the world, with males reaching up to 7 meters in length, although most individuals do not exceed 5 meters. This crocodile has an elongated, narrow snout, adapted to its carnivorous diet, which includes turtles, fish, and small mammals.
The species has been severely threatened since the 20th century due to excessive hunting driven by international demand for skins, which led to a drastic decline in its population.
Photo: "EL PATO" Salcedo / WCS Colombia
Currently, the Orinoco crocodile is classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In Colombia, its population remains very low, with fewer than 250 mature individuals in the wild. In addition to hunting, its habitat has been threatened by human intervention, such as fishing, destruction of its natural environment, and nest poaching.
For its conservation, priority areas have been identified in the departments of Vichada, Casanare, Meta, and Arauca, where efforts are underway to protect its habitats and improve the species' situation. These efforts have included the release of individuals, including both juveniles and adults, males and females.
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