IPB University Expert: Habitat Disturbance Triggers Crocodiles to Enter Residential Areas
Ahead of World Crocodile Day on June 17, the issue of crocodile conservation is back in the spotlight, especially due to the rampant appearance of crocodiles in residential areas.
In response to this, Prof Ronny Rachman Noor, an Expert in Ecological Genetics at IPB University, stated that this phenomenon is closely linked to the disruption of crocodiles’ natural habitats due to human settlement expansion.
“Crocodiles are territorial animals that require vast areas, especially dominant males with several females. During mating season, male crocodiles become highly aggressive, and they also need extensive space for hunting to meet their survival and reproductive needs,” explained Prof Ronny
According to him, when crocodiles’ roaming areas shrink due to land conversion and residential development, they tend to enter human environments in search of food. “In such conditions, crocodiles will explore new areas, including residential areas, because their original habitats no longer suffice for survival,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of educating the public that crocodiles cannot be blamed for entering human settlements; instead, humans need to understand and respect the living space of wild animals.
As an example of coexistence, Prof Ronny highlighted Australia’s successful management of wild crocodile populations. In that country, conservation areas are strictly protected, and educational tourism is developed to enhance public understanding.
“When humans can coexist with the wild, harmony is created, making this earth sustainable,” he said.
Such an approach, he noted, demonstrates that conservation is not just about protecting wildlife but also about building harmonious relationships between humans and nature.
Proper Actions When Encountering Crocodiles
When communities encounter crocodiles in their environment, Prof Ronny emphasized that the first thing to do is report it to the authorities. He reminded the public not to harm or attempt to drive away crocodiles in inappropriate ways.
“Crocodiles entering settlements occur because their habitats are disturbed. Therefore, handling must be done carefully and professionally. Crocodiles are also living creatures that easily become stressed if handled roughly,” he stressed.
He added that crocodiles that are not captured and only driven away are at risk of returning. “Crocodiles have a strong instinct for the presence of food, so if they are not moved to a new safe habitat, they are likely to return to their previous location,” he said.
Public Education on Wild Animals
Regarding the practice of keeping crocodiles and other wild animals, Prof Ronny emphasized that wild animals are not pets. Keeping wild animals without considering their natural environmental needs will only cause stress, reproductive disorders, and even death in these animals.
“Wild animals should be enjoyed in their natural habitats, not kept as personal possessions. If breeding is necessary, it must prioritize the ecological needs and welfare of the animals to ensure their natural behaviors remain intact,” he said.
He also reminded that conservation efforts must go hand in hand with public education so that people understand the risks and negative impacts of illegal wildlife trade and keeping, especially for predator species like estuarine crocodiles. (IAAS/TNY)
