The Nile crocodile is one of Africa’s most impressive predators. It is also the only reptile commonly regarded as game on African hunting safaris.
Crocodile hunting is very specific. It is usually conducted as a patient wait near the water. An experienced professional guide, who knows the territory and behaviour of individual animals, selects the location where the crocodile regularly basks on the bank or surfaces near the water.
The hunter then waits – sometimes for many hours.
When the animal finally appears, there is only a brief moment to decide. The shot must be absolutely precise. A crocodile’s skull is extremely hard, and the target is a small area of the brain. A powerful rifle and a steady hand are essential. If the shot is not perfect, the reptile disappears into the water and may become impossible to recover.
The experience of the hunt often continues along another path – in the taxidermy studio.
The crocodile is a trophy that allows for very striking presentation. The entire animal can be mounted in many different ways. The client in our example chose a dynamic mount with an open jaw.
Every crocodile is different, and working with its skin and the structure of its scales requires precise hand craftsmanship. During the modelling process, a remarkable amount of sculpting material is used in order to recreate the natural shape of the body and the distinctive expression of the head.
At Franc & Zugar Taxidermy, we prepare crocodile trophies with the aim of capturing the true character of this ancient predator.
Would you like to experience the hunt for a Nile crocodile?
Join Franc Hunting Safaris on one of our African expeditions.
And if you wish to bring home a memory that will last a lifetime, our team at Franc & Zugar Taxidermy will help transform your trophy into a unique piece of taxidermy art.
