Giant Crocodile
Huge Beast, unaligned
1,800 XP
Special Abilities
Hold Breath
The crocodile can hold its breath for 30 minutes.
Actions
Multiattack
The crocodile makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its tail.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 21 (3d10 + 5) piercing damage, and the target is grappled (escape DC 16). Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the crocodile can't bite another target.
Tail
Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target not grappled by the crocodile. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Giant Crocodile is a deadly ambush predator that excels in aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. Use its high AC and substantial HP to make it a formidable foe that won't be eliminated quickly, forcing players to commit resources. Its multiattack combining bite and tail swipe creates dynamic positioning challenges, and the grapple mechanic from its bite adds a tactical layer where captured party members become vulnerable.
Combat Tactics
The Giant Crocodile prioritizes using its Bite to grapple and restrain prey, dragging victims into deeper water where they face drowning hazards. It uses Death Roll as a devastating finisher on grappled targets, potentially dealing massive damage or forcing concentration saves. The creature should use its superior swim speed to control movement, diving underwater to force ranged combatants into disadvantage and separating the party.
Environment & Setting
This monster thrives in swamps, rivers, coastal marshes, and temple pools where water provides tactical advantage and escape routes. Ideal encounters include partially submerged ruins, narrow waterways with limited maneuvering space, or nesting grounds where multiple crocodiles might appear.