A woman was filmed as she petted a wild crocodile that was resting on the grass of a residential area in Florida, near a lake where ducks and other animals were also present.
The video was shared on the Instagram account @miamicertified, with the following message: "What could go wrong?" The scene prompted hundreds of reactions ranging from astonishment to humor.
Some users commented with phrases like “That was close”, “She’s definitely Cuban because she’s not afraid of anything,” or “Ducks have more common sense.” There were also those who recalled that this type of interaction is dangerous and even illegal in Florida.
The Spanish rescuer Miguel Assal, known for sharing first aid tips, recently explained that if you find yourself less than a meter away from a crocodile, you need to react immediately, as they can move with great speed due to their hunting instinct.
Florida is one of the states with the highest presence of alligators in urban areas. Authorities recommend keeping a distance, not feeding them, and reporting their presence to wildlife services.
It is estimated that around 1,000 people die each year due to crocodile attacks worldwide. This figure underscores the importance of taking safety advice regarding this species seriously.
Frequently asked questions about interaction with alligators and crocodiles in Florida
Is it legal to interact with or pet alligators in Florida?
Interacting with or petting alligators in Florida is dangerous and illegal. Authorities recommend keeping a safe distance from these animals and reporting their presence to wildlife services. Alligators can move quickly and pose a risk to human safety.
What to do if I encounter a crocodile in a residential area?
If you encounter a crocodile in a residential area, keep your distance and do not attempt to interact with it. In Florida, it is recommended to contact local authorities or wildlife services to handle the situation safely.
Why is it dangerous to be close to crocodiles and alligators?
Being close to crocodiles and alligators is dangerous because these animals can move quickly and attack out of hunting instinct. According to experts, such as rescuer Miguel Assal, if you find yourself within less than a meter of a crocodile, it is crucial to react immediately to avoid an attack.
What is the correct way to escape from a crocodile on land?
The correct way to escape from a crocodile on land is to run in a straight line. Rescuer Miguel Assal points out that crocodiles can run between 11 and 15 kilometers per hour, making it more effective to flee in a straight line rather than in a zigzag.
What precautionary measures should be taken in Florida to avoid attacks from alligators and crocodiles?
To avoid attacks from alligators and crocodiles in Florida, it is essential to maintain a safe distance, not to feed them, and to report their presence to the authorities. Additionally, it is advised not to swim outside of designated areas, especially during dawn and dusk, and to keep pets away from the water's edge.
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