Cancun, Mexico – A crocodile caused a stir in Cancun this week after it was seen walking through city streets. Video footage of the animal quickly spread on social media, showing it moving along roads, apparently trying to get back to its natural habitat in a nearby mangrove area.
The incident happened on Tuesday night, and residents were surprised to see the large reptile navigating the urban environment. The crocodile, estimated to be several feet long, was filmed moving along a residential street and then attempting to cross a busy road.
Cocodrilo es captado tratando de ingresar en área de mangle del Malecón Tajamar en Cancún, pero una malla metálica le impidió ingresar. @webcamsdemexico pic.twitter.com/VbcqPwsUti
— Medios Primer Mestizaje (@MMestizaje) March 12, 2025
Local authorities believe the crocodile likely came from the Nichupté Lagoon, a network of mangroves and waterways that runs through Cancun. Crocodiles are known to live in the lagoon, but it’s less common for them to venture into the city’s streets.
Experts suggest that recent heavy rainfall, which has raised water levels in the lagoon, may have disoriented the animal. The increasing development of Cancun, which is expanding into natural habitats, could also be a factor in these encounters.
“It’s a reminder that we live alongside wildlife,” said a spokesperson for the local environmental protection agency. “It’s important that crocodiles stay in their natural environment for the safety of everyone.”
Wildlife officials worked to guide the crocodile back to the mangrove area, and it was safely returned to the lagoon. The animal was reported to be unharmed.
The incident has raised concerns among residents about the interaction between urban areas and wildlife. People are now asking for more awareness and preventative measures to reduce the chances of future encounters. Authorities have advised residents and tourists to avoid feeding or approaching wildlife and to report any sightings of animals outside their natural habitats.
This event has also brought up discussions about balancing tourism growth with environmental protection in Cancun. As the city continues to develop, it’s important to find ways to protect the local ecosystem and ensure the safety of both people and animals.
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