The image of an American crocodile basking on the shores of Miami Beach has left some internet users speechless, while others see nothing unusual about it.
"Well, I will never take a nighttime bath again," the witness of the scene wrote in their Instagram stories this Thursday, tagging the popular profile Only in Dade in their video.
"Meanwhile, on Ocean Drive and 10 this morning..." reported Only in Dade hours later along with the images.
In the comments section of the post, some celebrated Florida's diverse wildlife and emphasized the need to adapt, while others lamented that it is no longer just a matter of worrying about the increasing presence of sharks on the state's beaches; now alligators, which typically do not frequent saltwater, are joining the mix.
"Florida is the new Australia," noted a commentator in reference to the diverse and dangerous wildlife that inhabits the Australian continent.
Recently, Only in Dade shared another video showing either the same alligator or possibly another one taking a dip in the ocean at South Pointe, while not too far away, a swimmer enjoyed the water.
It is by no means the first time—nor is it particularly unusual—that reptiles make an appearance in saltwater.
In November 2022, a video went viral showing a crocodile strolling along the beach, specifically between Sebastian Inlet and the Mel Fisher Museum in Brevard County, Florida.
In the images that went viral on social media, the crocodile was seen remaining still on the shore while the waves crashed against its body. However, at another moment in the clip, the animal could be seen entering the water, ready to take a dip.
"This sighting of a crocodile in Sebastian, Florida, far north of their typical habitat, is quite rare because American crocodiles are found from the northern coast of South America, through Central America and the Caribbean, to Mexico. In the United States, these reptiles are only found at the very southern tip of Florida," stated the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regarding the incident.
According to the source, American crocodiles have a higher tolerance for saltwater, but they tend to be shy and solitary, making it unlikely for them to be seen on the beach.
In June 2019, bathers at a beach in Jacksonville were given a serious scare when they spotted a crocodile in the water. Those in the sea were immediately ordered to get out, and several lifeguards, along with members of the FWC, were deployed to remove the animal.
Florida is the natural habitat of the American alligator. Each year, from April to June, during the American alligator's mating season, the FWC typically provides some tips for coexisting safely with this species.
Among the recommendations are not to feed them or dispose of fresh fish waste in the trash, to swim only in designated areas and during the daytime, and to keep pets leashed in areas away from the water to prevent crocodiles from confusing them with their prey.
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