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Gavial (Gharial)
Gavialis gangeticus

Close-up of a gavial (gharial) with its characteristic long, narrow snout

Photograph by Stephen St. John

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.

Protection status: Endangered

Size relative to a 6-ft (2-m) man:

Gavial (Gharial) range

Animals