Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – The Green Patrol had a busy but successful weekend, safely relocating three crocodiles that had ventured into urban areas of Puerto Vallarta. Thanks to prompt public reporting and the swift actions of the Green Patrol, all three reptiles were returned to their natural habitats without incident, highlighting the community’s commitment to both public safety and wildlife preservation.
Close Encounters Handled with Care
The series of relocations began at noon on Saturday when the Green Patrol received a report of a crocodile spotted on Gansos Street and Medina Ascencio Avenue in Marina Vallarta, near a Scotiabank branch. Officers quickly arrived to find a crocodile, nearly a meter long, resting under a black pickup truck. With careful maneuvers, the team successfully captured the reptile. This crocodile was not tagged, indicating it hadn’t been previously encountered or marked by wildlife authorities. It was then transported to the Fluvial Module, where the Ecology team, led by biologist Juan Corrales, took charge.
Later that afternoon, at around 5:00 pm, another call came in. A crocodile was reported on Paseo de la Marina Norte, in front of the Marriott Hotel. Green Patrol officers from unit PV-449 arrived to find a crocodile, also about a meter in length, already secured. This crocodile was also untagged and was likewise taken to the Fluvial Module for the Ecology Department to pick up.
The third and final relocation of the day occurred around 8:00 pm. A larger crocodile, estimated to be about one and a half meters long, was reported on Paseo de la Industria and Avenida Verde Vallarta, behind the Seapal reservoir. Recognizing the potential for an accident, the Green Patrol quickly responded. With the assistance of police officers from Unit PV-399, they safely captured the crocodile. This particular crocodile was tagged with the number 1061, suggesting it may have been previously monitored. It was also transported to the Fluvial module, awaiting collection by the Ecology Department.
The presence of crocodiles in urban areas tends to increase during the rainy season, so it is important to maintain vigilance, especially in areas near bodies of water.
The Green Patrol emphasizes the importance of public cooperation in these situations. If you encounter a crocodile, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and never attempt to approach or handle the animal yourself. Instead, report the sighting immediately to the Green Patrol at 322-178-8999 or, in case of emergencies, dial 911, available 24 hours a day.
These successful relocations serve as a positive example of how community vigilance and expert response can ensure the well-being of both residents and wildlife in Puerto Vallarta.
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