Gustave, a large male Nile crocodile in Burundi, Africa, is a legendary figure known for his immense size and alleged man-eating tendencies. His elusive nature means many details remain unconfirmed, adding to his enduring mystery.
Gustave’s Estimated Dimensions
Gustave’s size sets him apart from typical Nile crocodiles. Estimates place his length at approximately 18 to 25 feet (5.5 to 7.5 meters), making him considerably larger than the average adult male Nile crocodile, which typically ranges from 13 to 16 feet (4 to 5 meters). His estimated weight is over 2,000 pounds (900 kg), making him exceptionally heavy.
Initial age estimations suggested he could be around 100 years old, but this was later revised. Researchers now believe he is likely over 60 years old, an age at which crocodiles can still grow. His substantial size is believed to be a result of his advanced age and continuous growth.
The Legend of Gustave
Gustave’s reputation as a man-eater is central to his legend. He is rumored to have killed hundreds of people along the Ruzizi River and Lake Tanganyika, with estimates ranging from 60 to over 300 victims. Stories suggest he often leaves his victims’ bodies largely uneaten, a puzzling aspect of his behavior. His unusual hunting behavior, focusing on larger, slower prey like humans, is attributed to his immense size, which may hinder his ability to hunt agile animals.
Accounts of his apparent immunity to traps and bullets further his legend. Gustave reportedly bears multiple bullet scars on his body, with some observers noting three distinct bullet wounds and damage to his right shoulder blade. These injuries, sustained from various attempts to kill or capture him, have enhanced his reputation for resilience and cunning.
Gustave’s Elusive Nature and Habitat
Gustave primarily inhabits the Ruzizi River and the northern shores of Lake Tanganyika in Burundi. This extensive habitat, combined with his intelligence and caution, has made him difficult to track and capture. French herpetologist Patrice Faye dedicated years to studying Gustave and led an attempt to capture him, documented in the film “Capturing the Killer Croc.”
During this effort, a massive 30-foot (9.1-meter) cage weighing 2,000 pounds (907 kg) was constructed and baited, but Gustave consistently evaded it. Despite numerous attempts and varied strategies, he never fell for the traps, often appearing to observe them from a distance. Gustave’s last confirmed sighting was in 2009. While some reports in 2019 suggested he had been killed, no photographic evidence or carcass has ever been found, leaving his current status unconfirmed.