Authorities have issued a precautionary warning following recent crocodile sightings near the shore of Jacó Beach, a popular tourist destination in Garabito canton, Puntarenas province.

The Garabito Municipality reported the presence of a large adult crocodile swimming near the shoreline in the Madrigales area on Tuesday. In response, lifeguards quickly ordered beachgoers out of the water and advised them to stay away from the shore for the remainder of the day.

“We have issued an alert for surfers, surf school instructors, tourists, and local residents to exercise extreme caution due to the risks posed by these reptiles,” the municipality stated in an official announcement.

Park rangers are currently inspecting the area to determine whether crocodiles remain nearby and to implement appropriate safety measures to reduce the risk of human-wildlife encounters.

Crocodile populations in Costa Rica are monitored by the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). The country is home to two species along its coasts and waterways: the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and the spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus).

A SINAC study  "Current Report of the Crocodiles and Caimans Population," found that human development and land-use changes have significantly reduced these reptiles' natural habitats.

The study also identified several rivers with the highest crocodile populations such as Tárcoles River in Puntarenas, Tempisque River in Guanacaste, Matina River in Limón, Sarapiquí River in Heredia, San Carlos River in Alajuela, Bongo and Nosara Rivers in Nicoya Peninsula. Each of these waterways is estimated to host an average of 3,000 crocodiles.

Crocodiles in Costa Rica inhabit freshwater, saltwater, and brackish ecosystems, including rivers, estuaries, lagoons, river mouths, and coastal areas.

Experts emphasize the importance of caution in areas where crocodiles may be present. Over the years, public awareness campaigns have been launched to educate both residents and visitors about safety practices.

To reduce the risk of crocodile encounters, SINAC offers the following guidelines:

• Never swim in waters where crocodiles may be present, especially if there are no warning signs.

• Always obey crocodile warning signs, they are placed for your safety.

• Remain alert near bodies of water; crocodiles are likely to spot you before you see them.

• Do not provoke, harass, or approach crocodiles, including juveniles.

• Never feed crocodiles, it is both illegal and dangerous.

• Use extra caution near water at night.

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

• Steer clear of areas showing crocodile slide marks, as these may indicate nearby activity.

Residents and tourists are urged to report any crocodile sightings to the nearest police station or by calling 9-1-1.

SINAC, the agency overseeing Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas, continues to monitor crocodile populations and advance public safety initiatives aimed at reducing risks and preserving wildlife habitats.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this information within their communities.

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