Did Medieval Moats Have Crocodiles? An Examination of Historical Practices

Medieval moats were primarily designed as defensive structures to protect castles and fortifications from invaders. However, the idea of using crocodiles in moats is more of a myth or fantasy. While there are historical accounts of other animals being used in moats, the actual records reflect practical uses rather than fantastical creatures.

Myth of Crocodiles in Medieval Moats

There is no historical evidence that crocodiles were used in European medieval moats. Crocodiles are native to tropical and subtropical regions, primarily in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Australia. Thus, they were unlikely candidates for moats in Europe.

Practical Uses for Other Animals in Medieval Moats

While it is unlikely that crocodiles were placed in moats, some medieval moats did contain various animals for practical purposes:

Fish

Varying fish species were often present in moats, providing a source of food for the castle inhabitants.

Birds: Swans and Ducks

Swans and ducks were sometimes kept for their beauty and as a food source. These birds were well-suited to the moat environment and could be easily managed within the confines of the castle.

Geese

Geese were also common in moats, typically for their utility in guarding the castle and providing additional food.

Guard Dogs

Some castles might have had guard dogs near the moats for protection. These dogs would alert the inhabitants to any potential threats, enhancing the overall security of the castle.

Ancient Anecdotes and Intriguing Exceptions

No castle, to my knowledge, held animals in a permanent, sustained basis. However, there are a few interesting anecdotes related to animals in moats:

The Gifted Polar Bear

The king of Norway gifted a polar bear to England in the past. This bear was kept in London, notably in the moat around the Tower of London. According to the Yeoman Warder guiding the tour of the same building, the bear was eventually released into the moat and died shortly after from disease believed to have been contracted in the moat. The moat, being a wet and toxic environment from years of organic refuse, was likely hostile to the bear's survival.

Fort Pulaski and Alligators

It is interesting to note that some moats did contain alligators. Fort Pulaski in Georgia is an example where alligators were found in the moat. This highlights the diversity of environments that moats could inhabit, although it is important to remember that alligators are wild and dangerous animals, not typically found in European moats.

In short, while the idea of crocodiles in moats might seem captivating, the historical use of animals in these defenses was more practical and less fantastical.