Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — A young crocodile found lingering near Playa 72 in Playa del Carmen has been relocated. The meter-long reptile was reported by beachgoers who saw it hanging out in a sinkhole near a mangrove.

Municipality biologists and personnel from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) located and captured the croc for relocation to a Puerto Morelos mangrove.
Samantha Álvarez Hernández, Secretary of Solidaridad Sustainable Environment and Climate Change, reported that the specimen was relocated to avoid a possible human or pet mishap since Playa 72 is a pet friendly beach.
The young croc was found in the mangrove access to Playa 72 in the Luis Donaldo Colosio neighborhood and relocated to Puerto Morelos.
She explained that the reptile was in its natural habitat when found, so the intention was also to ensure it was not disturbed. After capturing the croc, municipal personnel checked the area for other wandering crocs or nests.

Álvarez Hernández emphasized that these wildlife species are in their natural habitat and that it is humans who are the invaders, therefore, it is necessary to care for all species found in the mangroves and adjacent areas.
Last month Playa del Carmen authorities reported on an increase in crocodile reports on public beach areas, mainly in the city’s suburbs.