So I am slightly scaring myself writing this blog, but here goes….
The longest American crocodile that has been measured was a 17 feet foot male, living right here in Costa Rica’s Tarcoles River!
Had to get that fact out of the way- very scary!
Their habitat includes large rivers or streams, swamps, lagoons, or estuaries. They can tolerate salt water, so they may also be found in salt marshes, freshwater marshes, mangroves, swamp forests, river mouths, and sometimes in the open ocean. The bodies of water in which they live are usually in lowland dry, moist, or wet forests.
At one time the American Crocodile lived in most lowland areas of Central America. However, this powerful animal was excessively hunted for its valuable skin and because of the supposed threat to humans. By the 1960s, they were exterminated from much of their former range. A concentrated effort in the 1980s and 1990s helped this crocodile return to more of its former home ranges, and now it lives in protected areas along both coasts here in Costa Rica.
The Croc is more active at night, while during the day they may lay for hours on the shore or bank. When they need to cool down, they will open their mouth or cool off in the water, where they spend the majority of their time.
Crocs are very territorial, and the older, larger crocs will dominate their area, sometimes fiercely protecting their boundaries.
Adult American Crocodiles do not have any predators, with the exception of large sharks, humans, and sometimes a large jaguar, making it possible for this species to reach lengths that make it one of the largest crocs in the world.
Their diet is primarily comprised of crabs, fish and amphibians, but larger individuals have been known to eat water birds, small mammals, and even on occasion a cow or a horse.
I am a surfer, so I am especially terrified, while also in awe of these large animals. I have paddled within 4 feet of one, close enough to see the color of it’s watchful eye and series of large looking teeth! Luckily these crocs are usually timid toward humans, and there are not many croc attacks throughout the country, though there has been reported attacks over the years. There are certain beaches and waters where the crocs are common, and others where there are no crocodiles, so you can swim worry free.
When visiting Costa Rica, I highly suggest a croc tour from Jose’s Crocodile Tour. I have had the pleasure of taking this trip many times, and have learned something new about the crocs, the river, the birds and Cost Rica each and every trip. Jose and his staff are very e, and do not worry, they guarantee a safe trip, along with a crocodile sighting. You might even have the chance to touch one of the crocs tails, if the croc is willing, and if you are brave enough!
