Lolong, a giant saltwater crocodile, captured global attention due to his immense size and the story of his discovery. His presence highlighted both the awe and apprehension such powerful creatures inspire.
The Record-Setting Measurement
Lolong was officially measured at 6.17 meters (20 feet 3 inches) from snout to tail and weighed approximately 1,075 kilograms (2,370 pounds). In June 2012, this size earned him the Guinness World Record for the largest crocodile in captivity. British crocodile expert Adam Britton, working with National Geographic, sedated and measured Lolong to confirm his dimensions.
The Discovery and Capture
The hunt for Lolong began in the marshlands of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, Philippines, after he was linked to the disappearance of a fisherman, the discovery of a 12-year-old girl’s head, and attacks on water buffaloes. A three-week effort involving approximately 100 people was required to capture the reptile. The capture was challenging, as Lolong exhibited aggression and broke restraining ropes multiple times. He was named after Ernesto “Lolong” Coñate, a veteran crocodile hunter who passed away before the successful capture.
A Closer Look at Saltwater Crocodiles
Lolong was a saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), the largest living reptile on Earth. Adult male saltwater crocodiles typically reach lengths of up to 6.3 meters and can weigh over 1,000 kilograms. Their habitat spans coastal areas, brackish wetlands, and freshwater rivers across eastern India, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia. Saltwater crocodiles are apex predators, growing to immense sizes due to their opportunistic hunting and ability to thrive in diverse aquatic environments.
Lolong’s Enduring Legacy
After his capture, Lolong resided at the Bunawan Eco-Park and Research Center, where he quickly became a central attraction. His presence significantly boosted local tourism, generating substantial income for the community through entrance fees and other activities. Lolong passed away on February 10, 2013, after a little over two years in captivity. Necropsy findings indicated his death was due to pneumonia and cardiac arrest, potentially aggravated by a fungal infection and stress. Today, Lolong’s preserved remains are displayed at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila, serving as a reminder of his extraordinary life and contributing to broader awareness of crocodile conservation.