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Environment
NEPA: Stay away from crocodiles
Sunday, June 28, 2009
THE National Environment and Planning Agency has said it will not remove crocodiles from their natural habitat unless there is clear evidence of risk to human health.
This follows reports of crocodile sightings along a section of the Rio Cobre River that runs adjacent to Shelter Rock and Thompson Pen in Spanish Town, St Catherine.
"NEPA is reminding persons that waterways such as rivers, gullies, swamps, wetlands and streams form part of the natural habitat for crocodiles. As such, the agency would not act to remove any crocodile from its natural environment unless there is a clear indication of possible interaction between the residents and the animal," the environmental regulatory agency said in a release to the media last week. "However, we are mindful of the concerns of the residents as it relates to the proximity of the animal to their recreation areas. We will be sending a team to the area to assess the matter and to take the best course of action."
Meanwhile, the agency has urged residents to stay away from crocodiles, having regard to their own safety and to that of the animals which are protected under the Wild Life Protection Act.
"The agency is warning all persons not to provoke crocodiles. These are sensitive animals which may react dangerously if cornered and attacked," NEPA said. "Crocodiles are one of Jamaica's many endangered animal species and are protected by law. Capturing or killing the animal is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act."
Anyone found guilty of this offence is liable to pay a fine of up to $100,000 or serve 12 months behind bars.
Added NEPA: "The public is also being advised that there is no payment for the apprehension or recovery of a crocodile. It should be the civic duty of individuals to ensure the protection of the country's endangered species. If crocodiles are seen in areas where they may pose threats to human activities, kindly call NEPA at 754-7540, 1-888-991-5005 or 478-7957. You may also call 119 or the nearest police station."
The American Crocodile - the species found in Jamaica - is instinctively shy and will shun human contact. Due to the recent heavy rains that have been affecting parts of the parish, crocodiles may have been displaced from their usual areas by flood waters. As soon as the sun comes out, crocodiles will emerge, given that they are cold-blooded reptiles seeking warmth.
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