Photos show ‘force of nature’ crocodile smashing and devouring reptilian brother

An enormous saltwater crocodile has been caught on camera violently swinging a smaller specimen through the air, before eating it whole.

The photos, taken by Sandra Bell during a visit to Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park in Far North Queensland, were posted today to the Queensland National Parks Facebook page.

They have since received more than 410 likes, 120 comments and 290 shares.

“It happened just a couple of hundred metres from our warning sign, so it's a good reminder to remember to be croc-wise in croc country,” the caption reads.

The photos show what appears to be a spectacular – and grisly – duel to the death, ending with the loser being eaten by its opponent.

While crocodiles typically prey upon other species, they are known to indulge in cannibalism.

Male saltwater crocodiles have a particular reputation for being aggressive and territorial, attacking intruders on sight.

The species can be found across northern Australia and are major predators in both wetland and marine environments.