Henry, the oldest crocodile in the world, has just turned 124 (but unfortunately he “celebrates” in captivity)

At the Crocworld Conservation Center in Scottburgh, South Africa, an extraordinary milestone is being celebrated: the crocodile Henry has reached the venerable age of 124 years. This Nile crocodile, one of the reptile species largest and longest-lived in the worldhas lived in the conservation center since 1985, after being captured in the Okavango Delta in Botswana back in 1903.

Henry, who is estimated to have been born around 1900is a giant 5 meters long and 750 kilograms of weight. His impressive longevity makes him a symbol not only of the resilience of his species, but also of the importance of conservation in captivity.

Unlike life in the wild, where Nile crocodiles live usually between 70 and 100 years oldHenry was able to exceed this average thanks to a protected environment, regular nutrition and constant veterinary care.

He has fathered over 10,000 young with several females

Every year, Crocworld celebrates Henry the’s birthday December 16th with dedicated events and the attention of curious people and enthusiasts from all over the world. Although his exact date of birth is not known, it was decided to choose this date for the celebrations.

During his time at Crocworld, Henry didn’t just impress visitors with his majesty: he played a fundamental role in the reproduction of the species, generating over 10,000 cubs with several females. This contribution to the conservation of the Nile crocodile is particularly significant, considering the threats the species faces in the wild, such as habitat loss and hunting.

Crocodiles, like other reptiles, possess biological characteristics that promote longevity. Being cold-blooded animals, they manage to conserve energy by regulating body temperature through external sourcesrather than relying on internal metabolism like mammals. This process slows aging and contributes to a longer life.

Furthermore, life in captivity eliminates many of the natural dangers, such as predators, disease and food shortages. In short, thanks to this “lifestyle” Henry managed to reach an unexpected goal, but at what price? Let’s not forget that all he has seen for almost his entire existence are nothing but wire fences and people crowding together to photograph him.