The discovery of a four-year-old Siamese crocodile in the New Territories in April captured our curiosity.
The female reptile was 1.9 metres long and weighed 35kg. For now, it is staying in quarantine at Ocean Park, where experts are examining it.
Howard Chuk, head of conservation at the park, says the crocodile is probably about four years old. He says that it could grow to be much longer in a few years.
Reptile experts believe the croc was smuggled into the city as a pet. In the past 20 years, these reptiles have only been seen in the city four other times.
All about Siamese crocodiles
This species is capable of growing up to 4 metres in length and can weigh up to 80kg. Still, Siamese crocodiles are only medium-sized among the wider family of crocodiles.
The longest lifespan of a Siamese crocodile is not known, but the discovery of a 3.2-metre croc weighing 100kg in Vietnam in 2012 means they could live nearly 100 years.
What do they eat?
Crocodiles can live for a year without eating, because they are cold-blooded!
Siamese crocodiles are carnivorous reptiles that live in freshwater areas.
Reptile expert Victor Wong says the crocs will "eat whatever fits in their mouths", from birds to invertebrates. Adults mainly eat fish, but they also eat amphibians, reptiles and small mammals.
It is a mighty predator with a "bite force" of 3,000 psi (pounds per square inch). Bite force is the strongest force that an animal's jaw muscles can apply when biting down.
Where are they found?
Crocodiles are a rare sight in Hong Kong because the area is not part of their natural habitat.
The Siamese crocodile is native to Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand and Cambodia.
This species is endangered in the wild because of poaching. Only 500 to 1,000 wild Siamese crocodiles still exist around the world.
Fun facts
Another animal with a strong bite force is the hippo. Its enormous mouth and large teeth can bite down with a force of 1,800 psi. To compare, the average strength of a human bite is just 162 psi!
Quick questions
1. Do you think it is legal to bring crocodiles into Hong Kong?
2. How long can a Siamese crocodile live for?
3. Which strong muscles does the story mention?
