What are Crocodile Scutes?

Crocodiles are big, strong reptiles that live in rivers and lakes. They have shiny, scaly skin that helps protect them. One special part of their skin is called 'scutes.'

What are Scutes?

Scutes are the bumpy plates on a crocodile's back. They look like big, hard bumps and are made of the same stuff as our fingernails! These bumpy plates help keep the crocodile safe from other animals.

Why are Scutes Important?

Scutes help crocodiles in many ways:

• Protection: The hard bumps keep their skin safe from scratches and bites.
• Camouflage: The bumpy texture helps them blend into the river or swamp, so they can hide better.
• Temperature: Scutes help them stay warm when the sun is shining bright.

How Do Scutes Feel?

If you could touch a crocodile (but be careful, because they are wild), you would feel the hard bumps! Each scute is like a tiny shield on their back.

Fun Fact!

Did you know that no two crocodiles have the same pattern of scutes? Just like our fingerprints, their scutes are unique to each crocodile!

Now you know what scutes are and why they're important for crocodiles!