The study found that two species inhabit the country’s coastal regions: the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and the spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus).

Crocodiles can live in fresh, salt and brackish water, allowing them to occupy a wide range of ecosystems, including rivers, lagoons, estuaries, river mouths and coastal areas.

Experts have also documented crocodiles in rivers and lagoons in mountainous regions at elevations as high as 600 meters (about 2,000 feet) above sea level.

Researcher Iván Sandoval said crocodiles are capable of traveling long distances between rivers and the ocean, particularly during the dry season, which typically runs from December through May.

“During the dry season, people need to be more cautious,” Sandoval said. “As river levels drop, many crocodiles move in search of water, which can bring them closer to areas where people are present.”

Experts warn that seemingly calm waters can be misleading. “The water may look calm. At first glance, there’s nothing that raises concern. The shoreline appears safe, and the scenery invites people to get in without thinking twice,” experts said. “But in many parts of the country, that calm can be deceptive.”

Because of the increased likelihood of encounters, experts urge residents and visitors near rivers, lagoons and coastal areas to take precautions to reduce risk.

• Never enter the water in areas with posted crocodile warning signs.

• Staying on shore when the water is murky and visibility is poor.

• Avoiding swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding or surfing near river mouths or estuaries.

• Do not fish while standing in the water, as crocodiles may be attracted to the catch; instead, fish from a boat or a secure location on land.

• Avoid cleaning fish on shore, as remains can attract crocodiles.

• Keeping pets away from the edges of rivers, the ocean and other bodies of water, as they may attract predators.

• Moving away immediately if a crocodile is spotted and never attempting to interact with or feed it.

• Reporting sightings to local authorities, including police or lifeguards.

• Avoid swimming in waters where crocodiles may be present, even if warning signs are not posted, and always respect posted warnings.

• Remaining vigilant near water, noting that crocodiles often see people before they are noticed.

• People should never provoke, harass or approach crocodiles, including juveniles, and should never feed them, as doing so is both illegal and dangerous.

• Extra caution near water at night.

• Avoid standing, wading or paddling at the water’s edge.

• Areas with visible crocodile slide marks should also be avoided, as they may indicate recent activity.

Residents and visitors are urged to report crocodile sightings to the nearest police station or by calling 911.

Experts emphasize that crocodiles are not invading human spaces but are living in habitats they have long occupied. What has changed is their interaction with people, influenced by urban growth, economic activity and the recovery of crocodile populations.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this warning with their communities.

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Have you heard of any crocodile attacks in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com