The forest department has successfully captured a seven-foot-long crocodile that had been terrorizing villagers near Mayiladuthurai in Tamil Nadu for nearly a year. The reptile was caught in a net set up by the department on Wednesday night, bringing relief to the local community.
Incident Details
The crocodile was frequently seen in a pond called Ayyanaar Kulam, located in Kunnam village near Sirkazhi in Mayiladuthurai district. According to villagers, the reptile had preyed on several goats and chickens over the past year, causing fear and economic loss.
Importance of the Pond
Spanning approximately two acres, the pond plays a vital role in recharging and protecting groundwater in the village. Locals regularly use it to water their livestock, making the crocodile's presence a threat to both safety and livelihoods.
Operation to Capture the Crocodile
Concerned for their safety, villagers urged the forest department to take action. Acting on the request, forest department personnel, led by Sirkazhi range officer B Ayub Khan and under the direction of Mayiladuthurai district forest officer S Ganesalingam, set up pouch nets baited with chicken meat at about 15 locations around the pond.
On Wednesday at around 9:30 PM, the crocodile was trapped in one of the nets. Department personnel, with help from local reptile expert Pandiyan, safely subdued and secured the reptile.
Relocation of the Reptile
The crocodile measured approximately seven feet in length and weighed around 50 kilograms. It was loaded onto the bed of a mini truck and released into a suitable habitat in the Kollidam river near Anaikarai in Thanjavur district at around 1 AM.
The successful operation has brought relief to the villagers, who can now resume their daily activities without fear.
