Why Crocodile Sightings Are Increasing in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is among Mexico’s most beautiful coastal destinations. It easily attracts visitors to its golden sands lapped by the warm Pacific Ocean and stunning sunsets. But you may not be alone when enjoying this waterside paradise. This area is also inhabited by the American crocodile, and lately, there has been some conflict between our two species. This is the latest on what has been happening.

American Crocodiles and the Risks They Pose

American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus)are moderately large reptiles. Although most are around 11 feet in length, some can grow to 22 feet. They have a long and powerful tail that can inflict a hefty blow, claws, and sharp, jagged teeth.

These crocs live along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts in a broad range of aquatic environments. They predominantly inhabit freshwater sites such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. However, you will also find them in brackish waters such as swamps and estuaries. The Puerto Vallarta region is home to around 200 to 300 American crocodiles, though only around 40 are fully grown adults.

They tend to stay in one area—except during mating season. During this time, they search for suitable partners, and males become territorial as they compete for females. These crocs generally do not go looking for confrontations. They lead a solitary life and prefer to be alone, retreating from trouble. However, if they feel threatened by another animal (including a human), they will attack. On rare occasions, they have attacked and even killed humans.

Crocodiles in Puerto Vallarta

There have been previous reports of crocodile attacks in Puerto Vallarta. In July 2022, a tourist from Colorado was attacked when he went for a late-night swim and received bites to his legs, arm, abdomen, and chest. A second man who went to his aid received wounds to his wrist. In this latest report, a 12-foot croc was captured on Puerto Vallarta beach. This individual was safely located away from the tourist zone, but it has still raised concerns about safety.

At this time of the year, the rains cause the local waterways to expand, which encourages the crocs to explore. To add to the problem, urban expansion and tourism have encroached on the wetland habitats of these creatures, making encounters more likely. Sightings of crocs in local rivers, such as the Ameca and Pitillal, have become more common. Some have even been spotted walking along beaches where tourists have tried to feed them!

Staying Safe Around Crocs

Any croc over six feet in length should be considered dangerous. They are most dangerous in the water, so look out for local warning signs and be alert when you are swimming or participating in water sports. If you see one, move calmly toward shallow water and get onto land. Avoid paddling and swimming at night, dawn, and dusk when they are most active. Never attempt to approach, feed, or touch a crocodile – that includes hatchlings. Their mom could be nearby!

The post Why Crocodile Sightings Are Increasing in Puerto Vallarta appeared first on A-Z Animals.