TAMPA, Fla. — Reports of American crocodiles seen around parts of Florida have been in the headlines lately, including one that was spotted lounging along the east coast on Melbourne Beach.
But what about spottings in the Tampa Bay area?
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission told us in 2022 they received two reports of crocodiles in Pinellas County, but none in the surrounding counties. However, in 2021, there was one report in Manatee County and another in Pinellas County.
Although the numbers may be small, it's still a tremendous feat because American crocodiles are a recovering threatened species native to South Florida and the Keys. They were federally listed as an endangered species in 1975, according to FWC.
"Crocodile numbers have rebounded from a few hundred individuals to as many as 2,000 adult crocodiles today," the FWC said in a statement. "The Florida population is now classified as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service."
As development continues to expand in the Sunshine State, more sightings are likely.
FWC says American crocodiles are "shy" and "reclusive." They are found in brackish or saltwater areas and occasionally freshwater due to the extensive canal system.
According to the National Park Service, South Florida is the only place in the U.S. where the American alligator and the American crocodiles coexist.
FWC says conflicts between crocodiles and people are rare in Florida, but people should still use caution when near them. They gave these tips:
- Keep a safe distance if you see a crocodile. Be aware that crocodiles often will bask with an open mouth to regulate their body temperature, and there’s no cause for concern if you see this behavior.
- Swim only in designated swimming areas and only during daylight hours. Crocodiles are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Keep pets on a leash and away from the water, even in designated swimming areas, because they can resemble the crocodile’s natural prey.
- Never feed crocodiles – it is illegal and dangerous. When fed, they can overcome their natural wariness and learn to associate people with food.
- Dispose of fish scraps in designated waste containers because discarding scraps in the water may attract them. Also, avoid feeding other aquatic animals such as ducks because that also can attract crocodiles.