World's oldest crocodile is said to be 124 years old, with over 10,000 babies. Here's all about Henry, the man-eater

Henry, a colossal Nile crocodile at South Africa's Crocworld Conservation Centre, has achieved a remarkable milestone by reaching 124 years of age. This extraordinary reptile, potentially the oldest living crocodile globally, has garnered significant interest from both the public and scientific community.

While his precise date of birth remains unknown, Henry's birthday celebrations occur annually on December 16. His life began in Botswana's Okavango Delta circa 1900, evolving into a remarkable tale of longevity.

At Crocworld Conservation Centre, where he has resided since 1985, Henry recently commemorated his 124th year. Live Science reports that his birth around 1900 establishes him as one of history's longest-living documented crocodiles.


"He's clearly old," said Steven Austad, a biologist at the University of Alabama who studies animal ageing, in a statement to Live Science. "Whether he's 100 or 130, we don't know. An age of 124 is not inconceivable for a crocodile," he added.

His early life in the Okavango Delta was notable, as he developed a formidable presence. Local folklore suggests he caused considerable distress to a riverside tribe, with reports of attacks on community members.

Sir Henry, an elephant hunter, subsequently captured the large reptile, leading to tribal authorities imposing lifelong captivity.

At 700 kilograms and 16.4 feet in length, Henry has produced over 10,000 offspring. Scientists attribute his longevity to the protective environment and care at Crocworld.

"Animals that, for whatever reason, happen to live in a safe environment tend to live longer," Austad explained.

Scientific research suggests that Nile crocodiles possess blood with antibacterial proteins, potentially preventing infections. Their robust gut microbiome might also enhance their immune capabilities.

"(Crocodiles) live longer than the careers of the scientists studying them," Austad joked, reflecting the enduring nature of these prehistoric animals.

These prehistoric creatures inhabit 26 Sub-Saharan African nations and are associated with numerous human casualties annually.