- This behavior is named Gastroliths:
A stone that has been swallowed is called a gastrolith, is a form of geophagy. All crocodile species have this unusual behavior.
- A gastrolith can stay inside their stomach for years.
- Help With Digestion
They swallow stones because it's helping them with basic digestion, for "kneading" the food. This habit is especially beneficial for crocodiles who eat animals with shells and tough bones.
- Improves Swimming Skills
This strange behaviour might enhance a crocodile's swimming skills. Stones inside of a crocodile's stomach help him stay underwater.