How to Take Care of a Black Caiman Crocodile

A crocodile is a large, carnivorous, semi-aquatic reptile that lives in tropical and semi-tropical environments. Caimans belong to the genius Alligatorids. The female of the species can grow to an adult size of 4.5 to 5.5 feet in length, while the male can reach 6 to 8.5 feet in length. The average lifespan of the black caiman is between 50 and 70 years. If you are considering a hatchling as a pet, an aquarium will only serve as a temporary habitat. Soon you will have to provide ample space and an adequate diet to keep it healthy and happy. Caring for a black caiman is not an easy task and is best left for professionals and zoos.

Things You'll Need

  • Large, enclosed outdoor area
  • Large, heated pond
  • Land heaters
  • Water heaters
  • Feeder animals (dead or alive)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build a large, outdoor enclosure. The growth of the black caiman is not limited to the size of its enclosure, as some believe. The enclosure must be secure so that your caiman cannot escape. The height, length and width of the enclosure should each measure a minimum of three to four times the animal's length.

    • 2

      Create a large, filtered and heated freshwater pond with a cement bottom, similar to building a pool. A caiman spends most of its time in the water and requires at least 80 percent of its habitat dedicated to water. The depth of the pond should be at least two to three times the length of your pet, and the water should be kept around 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Your black caiman should be able to completely submerge its body. You must be able to drain the water from the pond to clean it. Frequent cleaning of the pond is necessary to prevent bacteria growth and infections or sickness.

    • 3

      Provide heated land space, or basking areas, as well as shaded areas. Heat lamps and heated areas keep the caiman warm during the cooler months. During the summer, they require shaded areas in which to cool down. The body temperature of the black caiman is about 86 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Make certain that the environment stays approximately 84 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

    • 4

      Feed your black caiman according to its size. Hatchlings will eat goldfish, insects, mice, pinkies, rats, earthworms, snails, freshwater crayfish, spiders, frogs and small lizards. Young caimans will also eat small pieces of pork, chicken and beef, either with or without the bones. Adult caimans should be fed the same diet, only in larger quantities, such as a whole chicken or a whole rack of ribs. The majority of these foods should be purchased from crocodile farms, as store-bought items could contain harmful bacteria and lead to sickness. If you raise chickens, rats or mice you can readily feed your caiman live food. However, this might lead to aggressive behavior. Most owners keep goldfish in their ponds as it gives their pets something to snack on. You should feed your caiman at least three to four times a week.

    • 5

      Keep track of the health, weight and color of your caiman. Check its teeth, eyes and snout weekly for discharge or discoloration. Check inside its mouth for sores and ulcers, which could signify stomatitis, or mouth rot. If you notice any changes in weight, color or behavior such as sluggishness or lack of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately. These sensitive creatures can slip away quickly from sickness.