Can crocodiles attack underwater?

While crocodiles are most dangerous in shallow water and at the shoreline, they can still attack underwater. According to CrocBITE, crocodiles have a special valve in their throats that keeps water out, allowing them to open their mouths and bite even when they are fully submerged.

Crocodiles typically target prey near the surface of water and attack in areas very close the shoreline. While there is some evidence that crocodiles are less likely to view humans as prey when they are underwater, they are still able to attack and are considered to be a serious threat to divers and submerged swimmers.