==Description==

Since Gustave has not been captured, his exact length and weight is unknown. In 2002 it was stated that he could be "easily more than 20 feet (6 meters) long", and weigh more than a ton. Some estimates have put Gustave at 7.5 meters (25 feet) or more in length. When first observed, he was estimated to be around 100 years old in order to achieve such outstanding size; however, Gustave revealed a complete set of teeth when he opened his mouth. Since a 100-year old crocodile "should be nearly toothless" (according to the documentary), he was estimated to be "probably no older than 60, and likely, still growing".

Gustave is also known for the three bullet scars on his body. His right shoulder blade was also found to be deeply wounded. Circumstances surrounding the four scars are unknown. Scientists and [[herpetologists]] who have studied Gustave claim that his uncommon size and weight impedes his ability to hunt the species' usual, agile prey such as fish, [[antelope]] and [[zebra]], forcing him to attack larger animals such as [[hippopotamus]], large [[wildebeest]] and, to some extent, humans. According to a popular local warning, he is said to hunt and leave his victims' corpses uneaten.<ref name="NatGeo"/> Also, it was stated in his documentary film that since crocodiles can go several months without eating, one the size of Gustave could afford to select his prey carefully.

In parts of [[Asia]] and [[Australia]] saltwater crocodiles (''[[Crocodylus porosus]]'') of {{convert|6|m}} long are occasionally reported; individuals of {{convert|9|m}} long have also been reported. In eastern India the ''[[Guinness Book of World Records]]'' has confirmed the existence of a 7 meter individual.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.underwatertimes.com/news.php?article_id=51790108324 |title=Guinness: India Park Home to World's Largest Crocodile; 6,9 meters (23 Feet) |publisher=''Underwater Times'' |date=June 14, 2006 |accessdate=2010-12-12 }}</ref> Although Gustave is not the longest crocodile ever recorded, Nile crocodiles longer than him have not yet been reported.