Why did crocodiles survive the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? New study of 7,000 fossils points to warmer climates

Around 250 million years ago, crocodiles and their archosaur relatives faced a significant extinction event. Their survival can be attributed to their adaptability and preference for warmer habitats, as they relocated to more suitable climates. Research highlights that climate change aided their endurance following the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs.
Despite enduring, crocodiles experienced a notable loss in diversity compared to their ancient counterparts.
Read the full report on The Economic Times
Story file
- Section
- Science
- First reported by
- The Economic Times
- Reporter
- rana sarkar and et science desk
- Published
- Thursday, 22 October 2026, 6:01 am IST
- Coverage
- One outlet so far
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