Crocodile Attacks Florida Dog

Alligators might make headlines more often, but they’re not the only reptilian predators that call Florida home.

A sharp reminder of that fact surfaced over the weekend when a woman’s dog was attacked by an American crocodile on a golf course in Key Biscayne. The woman and her pit-bull mix were out on the course Saturday when the dog began chasing ducks along the water, explained Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesman Lorenzo Veloz.

While crocs typically prefer ducks, opossums and raccoons for their meals, the dog’s presence was too tempting to resist it seems. The croc chomped down and dragged the dog under just like it would its regular mealtime fare, Veloz said.

The dog, which was estimated to be about 20 to 30 pounds, was no match for the crocodile. Its owner was unable to save it from the creature’s deadly grasp.

See Also:

• Alligator Attacks Black Lab in Tampa
• Gators on the Move as Temperatures Rise
• Florida Logs 1st American Crocodile Attack

American crocodiles are primarily found in South Florida, but do have a historic range that extends as far north as Charlotte County, FWC records indicate. Crocodile attacks aren’t quite as common as those involving alligators, but they do occur. Last year, the state witnessed its first croc attack on humans.

Residents in the Tampa Bay area are more likely to witness pet run-ins with alligators. Earlier this year, in fact, a black Labrador retriever was attacked by a gator at Rowlett Park. The dog went under and was never seen again.

It is possible for pet owners to prevent fatal encounters with alligators and crocodiles, Veloz said. Pet owners can help themselves and their animals by being very aware of their surroundings, he said.

When by the water, pet owners should “pay attention to movement in the water or any shadows that look different,” Veloz added. Crocodiles are especially stealthy, but gators can also take pets by surprise.

The best bet, he said, is to keep pets on leashes to stop them from entering water when predators are known to be in the area.

Remember, Veloz said, “it was their Florida before it became ours.”

To learn more about Florida’s crocodile population, visit FWC online. Information about alligators can also be found on the FWC website.

Tampa Bay area residents concerned about nuisance alligators will find the state has set up a hotline to assist them. To report problem gators, just call 1-866-FWC-GATOR.

Photo of an American crocodile courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission