In September, a family pet found himself in a precarious position which cost him his life. It followed some people to the WASA Lagoon where a hungry crocodile awaited. For years, the illegal crocodile feeding has taken place at the WASA Lagoon. This attracts onlookers during feeding time but, as studies have shown, this is a dangerous practice. A warning sign was placed on the site, informing the public that feeding the crocodiles is an illegal practice as per the Laws of Belize. People caught may be fined and may even face imprisonment. However, feeding continues.
The SAGA Humane Society issued a press release stating the following: The Saga Humane Society has received several complaints in the last several weeks about crocodile feedings down by the water plant area again. These feedings have resulted in the loss of two small dogs on the island. One of these dogs was a family pet now being mourned by a very distraught and traumatized child. Not only is this behavior illegal and dangerous, it is clearly being conducted by suspects. The Saga Humane Society along with the South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch (SACNW) will increase patrols in the area and will prosecute to the full extent of the law anyone conducting or participating in any of these activities. The Wildlife Division has been notified of these incidents and will also carry out an investigation and
remove any crocodiles now conditioned to human feedings. Anyone passing by
that area and seeing any of this illegal activity is asked to notify the patrol at the SACNW station. That number is 610-4911. Please help us protect our wildlife by stopping this illegal and very dangerous activity.
It is a CRIME to feed the crocodiles. Under Chapter 220 of the laws of
Belize Wildlife Protection Act molesting (including feeding) wildlife is
punishable by a $1,000 fine and/or six months in prison.
