Gavial (Gharial)
Gavialis gangeticus
Photo: A gharial shows its characteristic long narrow snout
Close-up of a gavial (gharial) with its characteristic long, narrow snout
Photograph by Stephen St. John
Map: Locator map for the gavial (gharial)
Gavial (Gharial) range

Fast Facts
Type: Reptile
Diet: Carnivore
Average lifespan in the wild: 40 to 60 years
Size: 12.25 to 15.5 ft (3.6 to 4.5 m)
Weight: 2,200 lbs (977 kg)
Did you know? The gharial's scientific name, Gavialis gangeticus is based on a misspelling of the Hindi word ghariyal.