Crocodile Sightings Decline at Coba Lagoon, Community Authorities Report

Tulum, Quintana Roo — The presence of crocodiles in Coba Lagoon has decreased compared to previous years, when the reptiles sometimes ventured into streets near the urban area, according to community authorities.

Azcorra, the community delegate, said that in recent months there have been no reports of crocodiles moving toward inhabited areas, as occurred in the past. He noted that some specimens may have relocated to the Macansho area, a nearby nature reserve with less human activity.

Although crocodiles remain in the lagoon, their visible numbers appear to have declined. Azcorra recalled that a person who ran a crafts stand at the site used to feed the animals chicken scraps, which accustomed them to approaching the tourist zone. After that person died, the feeding stopped and the crocodiles no longer gathered as they once did around the lagoon. In the past, several crocodiles also died from undetermined causes.

Local authorities have called on environmental organizations, volunteers, and conservation-minded citizens to help install warning signs around the lagoon to inform visitors and residents about the presence of wildlife.

The delegate emphasized that the lagoon cannot be closed to the public, as it is one of the most important natural spaces for the community and for visitors to the Coba archaeological site. However, proper signage would help maintain safe coexistence between people and wildlife.

As part of community efforts, the delegation organized a cleanup along the main avenue and areas near the lagoon, with participation from young people, students from the Colegio de Bachilleres, and local residents. The initiative aims to remove trash and improve public spaces, representing a second phase of cleanup promoted by the delegation to maintain water bodies and encourage citizen involvement in caring for Coba’s natural environment.