Tourists and Florida locals were a bit shaken at Pompano Beach pier last Friday. A 9-foot American Crocodile had decided to do some swimming just off the pier. And while it’s not unusual for crocs to wander into ocean inlets, it was still surprising to see the reptile in salt water. Visitors who often swim the waters of the pier were suddenly thinking twice about it.
According to reptile researcher Frank Mazzoti, this is perfectly normal behavior for the crocodile. Though it’s still a bit of a mystery as to the why. “Something like the pier will be a place for them to hide, a place for food to eat, they do that and it’s not an unusual behavior,” Mazzoti said. “For example, this time of year it’s not seeking mates, maybe it’s looking for food. I don’t know, but they show up near piers in a lot of places isn’t unusual because once they get out they’re attracted to structures.” So as far as Mazzoti’s concerned, it’s not a danger. This croc decided the pier is a perfect spot for a little fishing, and to maybe meet a friend.
No one should be particularly frightened by the croc, either. Despite being an enormous, scaly reptile with a toothy grin, this is an American Crocodile. Which are pescatarians. They eat shellfish like crabs, and fish. They aren’t interested in a red meat.
Obviously, getting too close to the creature is still a bit of a danger. So visitors are advised to keep their distance if they spot the croc. And move away slowly should it surprise them. But ultimately the big fellow’s not interested in taking a bite out of anyone. And they’re far more timid than their international cousins. So he wants as little to do with people as they want to do with him.
Not only that, but closer inspection of the video reveals that the crocodile has a tracker tag on the back of its neck. Meaning that this guy’s at least registered with wildlife researchers. So while it might seem spooky, he’s just enjoying the waters of the pier same as everyone else.
