Encountering a Crocodile: Here’s What You Should Do

The 11-foot alligator that capsized a canoe on May 6th, resulting in the death of a woman in Central Florida, serves as a reminder that while attacks by crocodiles on humans are “quite rare,” they can sometimes lead to tragic outcomes, according to state wildlife officials.

“This highlights the powerful wildlife that inhabits our natural spaces,” remarked Roger Young, executive director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

In Florida, there was an average of 8 unprovoked alligator bites per year reported over a decade up to 2022. Many incidents were severe enough to necessitate medical attention.

The committee advises individuals to be vigilant during the crocodile mating season from early April to June, as the risk of attacks tends to rise. This increased danger is attributed to crocodiles being more active, aggressive, and visible during this time.

Wildlife agents and committees have shared tips for avoiding and staying safe around reptiles.

Where are they?

Crocodiles inhabit areas from central Texas to North Carolina, as noted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Louisiana and Florida boast the largest populations, exceeding 1 million. Georgia has between 200,000 and 250,000 crocodiles, while South Carolina is home to around 100,000.

Morgan Hart from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources believes that the rise in crocodile attacks is due to “significant population growth in the South Carolina Coastal Plains.”

New residential developments often create artificial lakes, soon attracting crocodiles.

Exercise caution around alligators.

If you see a crocodile on land, “the best option is to leave it alone,” Hart advised.

Crocodiles may hiss if they feel threatened by someone standing too close, according to her.

People should be cautious about approaching crocodiles, as this could indicate that the animals have been fed and associate humans with food.

Always maintain a distance of at least 30 feet from any crocodile, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission advises.

“They generally do not pursue people, but they can close the distance quickly,” the agency notes, explaining that crocodiles can sprint at speeds of up to 35 mph over short distances.

Keep a close watch on children and pets.

Crocodiles are likely to pursue prey that they can easily overpower.

“Pets can often resemble crocodiles’ natural prey,” said Lauren Clareabout, a spokesperson for the Florida Wildlife Commission.

People should keep pets leashed and prevent them from swimming or playing in known crocodile habitats such as canals, ponds, or lakes.

“The sounds of dogs barking and splashing can attract crocodiles,” the Florida Wildlife Commission cautioned.

Be mindful where you swim.

Wildlife agencies recommend swimming only in designated areas during daylight hours, free from pets.

“Crocodiles are most active during dusk and dawn,” Clareabout noted.

If you spot a crocodile in the water, remain calm and distance yourself. The Florida Wildlife Commission advises.

Do not feed them.

Feeding alligators in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas is illegal and can be dangerous (with the exception of designated hunting seasons).

According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife Fisheries, people should avoid throwing fish scraps or feeding other wildlife in areas where crocodiles congregate.

“Feeding them only leads to trouble,” stated Donald Hauser, general manager at Gator Park, located just south of Miami. He highlighted that once crocodiles are fed for three days, they lose their natural fear of humans.

“The key is to stay away,” he advised.

How to defend yourself.

Officials state that you should only confront a crocodile if it has latched onto you.

“In such cases, target the most sensitive areas: the eyes, nose, or throat,” Everglades National Park in South Florida advises, recommending that individuals “hit, kick, or jab with as much force as possible to compel the crocodile to release you.”

Nevertheless, if you find yourself caught in the crocodile’s jaws, your chances of escape are slim, Hauser cautioned.

“It’s best to have trained individuals handle such situations,” he advised.

“Crocodiles generally do not eat humans,” he explained, but they might take a bite and then release. However, if the grip is long enough, it could be too late,” he concluded.