200 crocodiles run into cities as storms hit near Texas

Photo byWikimedia Commons

MEXICO CITY – Heavy rains linked to Hurricane Beryl and Tropical Storm Alberto have caused a surge of crocodiles into urban areas in the northern Mexican state of Tamaulipas, state and federal authorities reported this week.

Authorities captured and relocated around 200 crocodiles since June—following the intense rains brought by Alberto. Beryl recently made landfall in south Texas contributing to rising water levels that displaced these reptiles.

The increase in water levels in coastal lagoons caused crocodiles to venture into cities like Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, where 165 crocodiles have been safely captured and relocated. Karina Lizeth Saldívar, head of the Tamaulipas state environment department, stated that “the recent rains have increased the water levels in the lagoon systems, which had led to an increase in the sightings of crocodiles.”

The federal Attorney General's Office for Environmental Protection noted that an additional 40 crocodiles were captured in June and moved to suitable habitats away from populated areas.

The situation is ongoing, with authorities cautioning that as water levels recede in flooded streets and drainage canals, more crocodile sightings are likely and that people should keep their distance. The issue initially gained attention after social media users posted videos of crocodiles tied up in urban areas, which created widespread concerns that the crocodiles would become more common.

Although crocodile attacks are rare, they do occur, underscoring the importance of safely managing these displaced animals.

What do you think? Have you seen any crocodiles recently after the storms?

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