Crocodiles Flee to Sea as Lagoon Habitat Fails

Cancún, Mexico — Pollution in the Nichupté Lagoon and the effects of vehicular bridge construction have caused crocodiles to move more frequently toward the sea in search of food, warned biologist Rubén Borau García.

Contamination and Loss of Food in the Lagoon

The lagoon is currently undergoing a process of eutrophication, an excessive accumulation of nutrients that has deteriorated its ecosystem and reduced populations of fish and other species that form part of the reptiles' diet.

"The lagoon is contaminated, and this has diminished the fish populations. Without finding food, the crocodiles are forced to migrate to the sea, despite being freshwater animals," stated the specialist.

Crocodiles Adapting to New Conditions

Borau García specified that although salt water can damage their skin, the crocodiles have begun to adapt to survive, which has increased sightings on beaches, especially in areas close to the lagoon's outlets.

He added that the construction of the vehicular bridge, which crosses the lagoon system, has also generated stress on the habitat, as the noise and alteration of the environment have made reproduction difficult for various species, further aggravating the situation for the crocodiles.

"It will become increasingly common to see them on the beaches. They are trying to resist the changes in their habitat," he warned.

Reports of Sightings on Beaches

According to the Heroic Fire Department of Benito Juárez, three cases of crocodile sightings in the sea have been attended to so far this year: one at Playa Langosta and two others in front of lodging centers in the Hotel Zone, reported its director, Alquileo Cervantes Álvarez.

Data from the Institute of Biodiversity and Natural Protected Areas of Quintana Roo indicate that approximately one crocodile currently inhabits each kilometer of the Nichupté Lagoon, while a census conducted three years ago registered around 150 specimens.

Two species under special protection coexist in this ecosystem: the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and the Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii), both subject to special protection according to the Mexican Official Standard NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010.

Authorities have reiterated that, although sightings may be more frequent, crocodiles do not consider humans to be prey. However, the disappearance of large, long-lived specimens compromises the lagoon's ecological balance.