At the National Museum of Natural History, there is a unique collection of four leather-wrapped baby crocodiles from the Ptolemaic or Roman period of Egypt, from 332 BC to 250 AD. These baby crocodiles were buried and preserved according to the complex embalming method of the ancient Egyptians.

Interestingly, the bones and shapes of these baby crocodiles remain the same, giving us a glimpse into the lives and heritage of crocodiles in the past. They show the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians in preserving and reviving creatures thousands of years ago.

Crocodiles had an important role in ancient Egyptian culture and were respected as a symbol of strength and protection. By covering and preserving baby crocodiles, ancient Egyptians hoped that they would bring luck and protection to their owners in life after death.

This collection brings many questions and expectations. Who buries these baby crocodiles? Why were they chosen for leather covering and preservation? The answers to these questions remain unknown, and this collection continues to be a fascinating mystery in the world of archeology.

The display of these leather-wrapped baby crocodiles at the National Museum of Natural History brings wonder and curiosity to visitors. They show that the quirks and subtleties of ancient Egypt’s heritage are still alive and worth exploring even after thousands of years.