The American crocodile, once facing severe population declines due to hunting and habitat loss in Florida, has seen a significant recovery. Listed as a protected species in Florida since 1967 and federally recognized as endangered in 1975, the crocodile population has grown from a few hundred to approximately 2,000 nonhatchling individuals today. This improvement led to their status being changed from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
Florida remains the only state in the United States where these reptiles can be observed in their natural habitat. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) advises caution when near water bodies to avoid conflicts with crocodiles. Key recommendations include maintaining a safe distance if a crocodile is spotted, keeping pets on leashes, and ensuring small children stay away from water edges, particularly at night.
Swimming should be restricted to designated areas during daylight hours without pets, as crocodiles are most active between dusk and dawn. Feeding crocodiles is illegal and dangerous; it diminishes their natural fear of humans and may lead them to associate people with food sources. Indirect feeding through improper disposal of fish scraps or feeding other wildlife should also be avoided.
Concerns about crocodiles can be reported via FWC’s toll-free hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), where they will assist in assessing situations accurately.
Further resources on coexisting with crocodiles are available at MyFWC.com/Crocodile.
