researchlimpopo.com
XML Feeds 
Crocodiles and thermoregulation
Crocodiles and thermoregulation
17/06/07
We have been having frequent visits from one of our resident crocodiles opposite the lodge. As the ambient temperature decreases in the winter, these crocodiles are prone to sun themselves on exposed sandbars in order to improve their thermoregulation. Crocodiles will often choose the warmer of two mediums - air or water - to control their body temperature. In this photo you can see how this croc is opening his mouth while facing the afternoon sun to expose the blood vessel-rich tissue inside the mouth. This will rapidly increase body temperature. Throughout the day you might see crocodiles opening and closing their mouths and changing their orientation to the sun in order to keep their bodies at the required (and fairly constant) temperature.
Comments, Pingbacks:
No Comments/Pingbacks for this post yet...
This post has 2920 feedbacks awaiting moderation...
Leave a comment: