The Nile Crocodile is an unusual trophy. These large, predatory reptiles are found in almost all of the large rivers of Africa and can be extremely dangerous to those who venture near to the riverbanks. An average male weighs 800kg and stands 140 cms to the shoulder, a female weighs circa 740kg and stands 130cms to the shoulder. The Crocodile is a long living, slow growing species, reminiscent of prehistoric times. Crocodile hatchlings are about a foot long and grow rapidly during their initial stage of life, growing at a rate of about 10 inches per year during the first six years of life, after which growth rate slows significantly. The trophy crocodile may reach a length of about 15 feet and may be as old as 75 to 100 years of age. While the Crocodile appears to be lazy and lethargic as he basks on the river bank, this belies a shy, wary, and extremely cautious nature. Crocodiles are extremely difficult to approach on foot to within a reasonable shooting distance and are extremely hard to kill quickly and cleanly. The first shot on the crocodile must be carefully placed to anchor him, for if he is allowed to retreat to the water, the trophy is most likely to be lost. Only two shots are effective in anchoring the crocodile, a shot placed into his golf ball sized brain or one that hits the spinal column just behind the head. Crocodile is best hunted from a blind and shot from a solid rest in the prone position. His tough hide and the extremely hard bone encasing the brain calls for a rifle of at least .338 calibre or larger, using quality, controlled expansion soft point bullets. Rifles larger than .375 calibre should be avoided as the recoil from such a weapon shooting from the prone position can be brutal and thus accurate shot placement becomes an issue. A quality scope of a least 4-power is essential. Hunting Crocodile can be an exciting and rewarding experience.