It's Raining Crocodiles!

By MIRIAM BOUCHER Research Coordinator Crocodile Research Coalition research.coordinator@crcbelize.org

Falling within the rainy season, November in Belize sees an increase in crocodile populations with new generations of young crocs moving along with river currents and adult crocs finding great hunting spots.

Yearly we experience a change in season here in Belize. The change in seasons is the switch between wet and dry season, and at this time of year we experience more rain and more storms.

This is also a time of transition for wildlife species, crocodiles included. At this time of year crocodile sightings often increase with the increase of rainfall. By the end of September, all crocodile nests have hatched and adult crocodiles are returning to their normal territories and activities. This means that you can expect to see some larger crocs on the move in the lagoon and surrounding areas.

Additionally, with a new generation of offspring, smaller crocodiles begin to disperse to new habitats. These smaller crocs may also become displaced due to increases in seasonal rainfall. Our rivers and streams become faster flowing and water levels rise in response to rainfall along the coast and in the mountains. Although crocs are excellent swimmers, smaller crocs, and sometimes even larger animals, are washed out from the rivers and streams into our lagoon and coastal wetlands.

You may also find crocs a little closer to home as yards and streets become flooded. These flooded areas trap fish and crabs and make great hunting spots, as well as drier areas for crocs to get out of the water to warm up. In many of these cases the crocs you see passing or using seasonally flooded areas are transient. They are on their way somewhere, or will move on when the water levels drop again as things dry out.

The important things to keep in mind is that seeing an increase of crocs at this time of year is NORMAL, and to follow wildlife safety protocol to enjoy our native wildlife and stay safe. Crocodiles should always be observed at a distance, and it is a special moment to observe these cryptic animals in their natural environment. Keep animals and children supervised near the water. If crocs are in the area make sure that animals and kids don’t have unsupervised access to the water at times of croc activity. Normally crocs are more active in the early morning, the evening, and at night, we recommend to avoid the water at these times.

Finally, be sure not to feed crocodiles. It is illegal to feed wildlife in Belize, and feeding of crocs causes them to lose their natural respect of people and potentially become dangerous to the community. We also recommend not throwing food scraps in the water if crocs are around as this indirectly feeds them and will give them motivation to stay close to people. Crocodiles are unique and important Belizean wildlife, and we encourage all to enjoy the rare sightings we get of these animals. Just remember to keep calm and croc on during this rainy season! ▪

Miriam has been working with the CRC since its conception two years ago as both a research associate and now, research coordinator. She holds a Master's in Wildlife Management and has pursued research on crocodile acoustic calls and behavior. She has a passion for all wildlife and conservation and enjoys exploring Belize's unique ecosystems and enjoying all of Belize's unique wildlife.

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