Endangered Siamese crocodile captured in South Korean stream

An alligator captured in the Soyang Stream in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, has been identified as a Siamese crocodile, a species listed as critically endangered internationally. The 80-centimeter-long reptile was apprehended by firefighters on July 18 and has since been transferred to the Yeoju Animal Protection Center for temporary care.

Analysis of photos and video footage provided by the city to the National Institute of Biological Resources confirmed the crocodile's species. Siamese crocodiles are native to the riverine environments of Southeast Asia, primarily Thailand, and are known to grow up to 4 meters in length as adults. Their populations are so diminished that they are listed under Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), indicating a severe risk of extinction.

The city has issued a public notice for 10 days to find the owner of the crocodile. However, given the strict regulations on the import and breeding of endangered species, and the legal penalties for illegal trade or abandonment, the chances of a legitimate owner coming forward are uncertain. If no owner is found within the notice period, the crocodile is expected to be transferred to the National Ecology Institute in Seocheon County, Chungnam Province.

The circumstances surrounding the crocodile's presence in the Soyang Stream are still under investigation by the police, who are looking into its origin and distribution route. City officials have assured that all measures will be taken to protect and manage the endangered species until it is handed over to the National Ecology Institute or its owner.

“

The circumstances surrounding the crocodile's presence in the Soyang Stream are still under investigation by the police, who are looking into its origin and distribution route. We will do our utmost to protect and manage the endangered species until it is transferred to the National Ecology Institute or the owner.