Can Crocodiles Really Cry? Nature Study for Kids
Have you ever heard the phrase “crocodile tears” and wondered what it means? This week’s crocodile nature study podcast episode reveals the truth behind this curious saying! Do crocodiles actually shed tears? If so, why do they “cry” mostly when eating? This short and engaging episode is packed with fun facts and scientific explanations.
Your family will love exploring the science behind crocodile tears, learning a new vocabulary word (lacrimation), and even pausing to do some quick research. Press play and find out the surprising reason crocodiles “cry!”
Crocodile Nature Study Comprehension Questions
Use these questions to check your family’s listening comprehension or to start engaging in discussions after the episode.
- What does the phrase “crocodile tears” mean? (It means fake sadness or pretending to feel sorry.)
- Why do people say crocodiles cry when they eat? (Because their jaw muscles press on their tear glands, pushing out tears.)
- What is the real reason crocodiles shed tears? (It keeps their eyes clean and moist, especially when out of the water.)
- What is the scientific word for producing tears? (Lacrimation.)
- Do crocodiles cry because they feel sad? (No, their tears are not emotional—they serve a practical purpose.)
- Why did ancient people believe crocodiles felt guilty while eating? (They noticed crocodiles shedding tears while eating and assumed it meant sadness.)
- What kinds of food do crocodiles eat? (They eat fish, turtles, snakes, and small mammals like rabbits and raccoons.)
- Why did the phrase “crocodile tears” become a way to describe fake crying? (Because crocodile tears aren’t caused by sadness, people started using it to describe someone pretending to be upset.)
Crocodiles and Alligators Nature Study Video Class
Kids who loved learning about crocodile tears will have a blast in the Crocodiles & Alligators Video Class inside the No Sweat Nature Study membership! In this lesson, students will create a comparison chart of these fierce reptiles, exploring their adaptations, habitats, and diets. Plus, they’ll illustrate and label key features like their teeth and powerful tails to see how these adaptations help the Order Crocodylia survive.
Not yet a member? Join today to access this exciting class and well over 150 more nature-based science lessons designed to make learning engaging and fun!
Free Nature Observation Printable Packet for All Seasons
No matter what time of year you’re listening to this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, here’s a printable pack of nature observation activities for every season of the year!
Would you like to record a voicemail to answer this season’s nature study question?
At the end of each No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode, Mrs. Cindy includes messages from a few of her friends. You can record a message that she might use on an upcoming episode!
All children must have their parent’s permission before leaving a recording. Parents are welcome to record an answer, too!
Each season, there will be a different question to answer. You can see this season’s question below. Think about your answer first, and then follow these simple directions:
- Click the button that says “Start recording”.
- Tell me your first name. (If you want to tell your age and/or where you live, feel free to do that.)
- You will have 60 seconds to answer the question but try to be concise.
- Push the play button to listen to your recording before sending it to be sure it is recorded correctly. If not, record it again.
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