Crocodiles play an essential and often overlooked role in sustaining healthy aquatic ecosystems and must be protected, said the Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC) in conjunction with World Crocodile Day today.
Dr Sai Kerisha Kntayya, a crocodile conservationist at DGFC, emphasized the need to understand crocodiles’ ecological contributions and to promote safe human-wildlife coexistence, especially in regions like Sabah, Malaysia where saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) naturally inhabit rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas.
“Although often seen as dangerous predators, crocodiles are apex species that help balance aquatic food chains and maintain healthy fish populations by removing the weak and sick,” she said. “It is possible for humans and crocodiles to co-exist—provided we respect their space and understand their behavior.”
She added that seeing crocodiles in marine waters is natural, as they are powerful swimmers capable of traveling long distances through the sea. Not all sightings should trigger fear or capture efforts.
To minimize risks, she advised local communities to avoid known crocodile zones—especially during nesting season from May to August—and to use designated, safe access points for water-based activities. She also urged caution at dawn, dusk, and night, when crocodiles are most active.
Infrastructure such as floating jetties, fences, and crocodile exclusion enclosures can further help reduce the chance of human-crocodile encounters, especially in high-risk areas. Dr Sai emphasized that waste management is crucial—improper disposal of food scraps, fish offcuts, or livestock remains can attract crocodiles closer to populated areas.
She encouraged communities to report crocodile sightings to wildlife authorities, enabling proper, non-lethal intervention if needed. Supporting ongoing research and tracking efforts, she said, is also vital to help identify risk zones and guide safe human activity planning.
“Public education, particularly in schools and villages, is key to helping people understand crocodile behavior and adopt safer practices,” she added.
DGFC noted that the saltwater crocodile is the largest living reptile, capable of growing up to seven meters long and traveling hundreds of kilometers by sea. These ancient creatures, virtually unchanged for over 200 million years, are fully protected under Sabah law.
“On this World Crocodile Day, let us remember that when we protect crocodiles, we protect our rivers, biodiversity, and future,” said the center in a statement.
Source: The Star
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
