Beware of crocodiles when near rivers and dams
Residents of Nkomazi are urged to be very careful when going fishing and swimming in local dams and rivers over December, following two recent crocodile attacks.
KOMATIPOORT – Following two recent crocodile attacks, residents are urged to be extra careful when going fishing or swimming the river over December.
A man was reportedly killed by a crocodile while near the river in Orlando two weeks ago.
Last Monday, a holidaymaker from the Free State was mauled by a crocodile while fishing at the Komati low-water bridge just outside Komatipoort. Read about it here.
According to Dr Hannes Botha, a herpetologist at the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Authority (MTPA), it is currently breeding season for crocodiles and the females’ tempers are short.
“Although they won’t necessarily go out of their way to attack people, they will act aggressive to chase intruders away,” he stated.
Because of their size, crocodiles have no trouble to catch prey like small antelope and dogs.
People make a tempting target when they stand in shallow water or crouch or sit next to the water when fishing, as they look smaller and easier to catch, said Botha.
He cautioned people against cleaning fish near rivers and dams and dumping entrails in the water as this can draw crocodiles from afar. Nkomazi residents are urged to avoid stretches of the river and dams where crocodiles have been spotted and to keep an eye out for the reptiles in other spots.
Another danger is drowning, which increases as people try to cool off during summer. Children should always be accompanied by adults when playing near water sources. Adults should ensure that the children can adequately swim, don’t stray in deep and have flotation devices nearby in case of trouble.
