Authorities have issued a precautionary alert following reports of crocodile sightings near the shore of Jacó Beach, a popular tourist destination in Garabito Canton, Puntarenas Province. 

According to park rangers from the Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC), lifeguards from the Garabito Municipality first reported the presence of a large adult crocodile swimming close to the shore near hotel areas last Sunday.

In response, lifeguards immediately warned beachgoers to leave the water and stay away from the shoreline. 

On Monday, park rangers conducted an inspection to determine whether crocodiles were still present and to implement measures to prevent potential encounters between tourists and the reptiles. 

“We urge the public to be aware of the risks of interacting with crocodiles,” said Gil Ruiz, regional director of ACOPAC. “We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening environmental education for visitors and increasing the installation of warning signs in the area to prevent incidents.”

Crocodile populations in Costa Rica are closely monitored by the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). Two species inhabit the country's coastal regions: 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 expansion has significantly reduced these reptiles' natural habitats.

The study identified several rivers with the highest crocodile populations, including the Tárcoles River in Puntarenas, the Tempisque River in Guanacaste, the Matina River in Limón, the Sarapiquí River in Heredia, the San Carlos River in Alajuela, and the Bongo and Nosara rivers on the Nicoya Peninsula. Each of these rivers hosts an average of 3,000 crocodiles.  

 

Crocodiles can thrive in fresh, salt, and brackish water, meaning they can be found in a variety of ecosystems, including rivers, lagoons, estuaries, river mouths, and coastal areas. 

Experts highlight the importance of exercising caution in areas where crocodiles may be present. Over the years, public awareness campaigns have been reinforced to educate residents and visitors about the risks of encounters with these reptiles. 

To stay safe in crocodile habitats, experts recommend the following precautions: 

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

• Always respect crocodile warning signs, they are there for your safety. 
  

• Remain vigilant near water; crocodiles will likely see you before you see them. 
  

• Never provoke, harass, or approach crocodiles, including juveniles. 
  

• Never feed crocodiles, it is illegal and dangerous. 
  

• Be extra cautious near water at night. 
  

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

• Stay away from areas with visible crocodile slide marks, as reptiles may be nearby. 
  

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

SINAC, the government agency responsible for managing Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas, continues to monitor crocodile populations and promote public safety initiatives. 

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