Can Crocodiles Breathe in Water?

Crocodiles live in rivers, lakes and dams and while they do spend most of their time in water, they can also come out and move about on land. Both crocodiles and alligators cannot necessarily “breathe underwater” rather they breathe air just like us human beings do. These creatures breathe in the water by raising their head and snout above the water’s surface. Since they do not have gills they are required to hold their breath when under water and can do so for a very long time if necessary. When hunting, most of the crocodile’s body remains hidden underwater, their eyes and snout are visible, which often makes them resemble a piece of driftwood.