Crocodilians in zoos face specific welfare challenges around thermoregulation, space and behavioural expression. Understanding their needs enables high-quality husbandry.
Crocodilian welfare has historically been under-prioritised compared to mammals, but these ancient reptiles are cognitively complex animals capable of learning, problem-solving and individual recognition. Adequate pool depth for submersion, dry basking areas with thermal gradient, and appropriate humidity are minimum requirements. Behavioural enrichment - feeding enrichment, object novelty, scent trails - engages natural foraging behaviour. Social grouping must reflect species norms: some species are territorial and cannot be co-housed safely.