NEPA stresses importance of crocodiles to Jamaica's ecosystem after another of the reptiles is killed

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is calling for Jamaicans to recognise the critical role crocodiles play in maintaining the balance of the island’s ecosystems, following yet another brutal killing of the protected species in Hellshire, St Catherine.

NEPA says the animal was discovered on Wednesday, near the Hellshire Bridge with its tail severed and a rope tied around its mouth. It says the crocodile, which had been spotted alive in the same area as recently as Saturday showed clear signs of being illegally captured before it was killed.

This latest attack comes just days after a similar incident was reported on Monday in a community off Spanish Town Road.

The Agency says it has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Hellshire incident and will collaborate with the relevant authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable under the law.

As such, NEPA is urging anyone with information that can assist with its investigation to get in touch with the Agency at 876-754-7540 or toll-free at 888-991-5005 or email pubed@nepa.gov.jm. Persons may also contact NEPA or call 119 or the nearest police station to report any instances of harassment, capture, or killing of a crocodile.

The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is protected under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA). It is an offence to kill, capture, or harm the animal, with violators facing penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment or fines of up to $3 million.

Leighton Mamdeen, Environmental Officer in NEPA’s Fauna Unit, stressed the importance of protecting the species.

“We continue to hear troubling reports of people consuming crocodile meat for supposed health benefits, including claims that the tail acts as an aphrodisiac. There is no scientific evidence to support this; it is simply false,” Mamdeen said.

He added, “Crocodiles are not food; they are vital to our ecosystems. They regulate populations of other species, and as scavengers, they help to keep our waterways clean by removing dead animals that could otherwise spread disease.”

Mamdeen also warned that pollution is a growing threat to crocodile survival. “We have found plastics, cans, diapers, and even clothing in dead crocodiles during necropsies. Protecting these animals means not only stopping illegal hunting, but also managing waste responsibly.”

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