Crocodile in South Lombok, Caught on November 13 - 3.3m male

Belongas Bay, South Lombok – A saltwater crocodile, estimated to be approximately 3.2 meters in length, has been spotted in Belongas Bay, South Lombok, raising concerns for the safety of nearby resorts and villages.

Update 13 November 2024

The salt water crocodile was finally caught by local fishermen, it was inside a fishing net, where they found it. They then carefully tied the crocodiles mouth and limbs, and transported it to the local authorities.

Latest information from 12 November, 10pm local time:

• 3.3 m male saltwater crocodile caught d
• delivered to the local authorities BKSDA

Update 2. November 2024

Breaking from Lombok’s Kuta Beach…

Tonight, under the glare of powerful spotlights (courtesy of the local Fire Department and Village) – one yellow, one white – the boat is ready, now turbo-charged with a bigger engine, sets out to track down the elusive Lombok Crocodile. This specially equipped vessel will scour the Belongas Bay waters, known habitat of these ancient creatures.

The Approach

1. Croc Team – Focused on locating and safely managing the crocodile.
2. Spotter Boat – Patrolling the mangroves around Blongas bay and harbour, providing additional surveillance.
3. Catch, Mark, Release – As this possible female crocodile is not a direct threat, it will be marked, and released according to a meeting with officials last night

A Dual Purpose

• Supporting Bali Reptile Rescue in their vital conservation work.
• Aiding Victims of Crocodile Attacks, highlighting the community’s compassionate response.

Stay tuned for further updates

——–

This crocodile sighted in South Lombok comes just a year after the successful capture and relocation of “Black Sabbath”, a notorious saltwater crocodile that had been eating a local Lombok resident (WNI).

It was successfully captured by Bali Reptile Rescue, and is now living in an enclosure at Lombok Wildlife Park.

Public Safety Advisory

While the situation is being addressed, visitors and residents in the vicinity of Belongas Bay are advised to exercise extreme caution when engaging in water activities. The Crocodile was last sighted around 200m from the local harbour.

The newly sighted crocodile

The newly sighted crocodile, temporarily dubbed “P Diddy”, is believed to pose a significant threat to human life if not apprehended. Saltwater crocodiles of this size can weigh between 150-300 kilograms, making them a formidable predator.

The following is footage shared by Bali Reptile Rescue team members:

Response Efforts Underway

A team, including Agus and Dr. Rayni, is en-route to the location to initiate capture operations. The planned approach involves:

1. Aerial Surveillance: Deploying a drone to pinpoint the crocodile’s location.
2. Harpoon or Trap Capture: Utilizing specialized equipment to safely capture the animal.
3. Medical Preparedness: Dr. Rayni will be equipped with tranquilisers, if necessary, to facilitate a secure transport.

Reptile Rescue Protocols

In line with established protocols, the rescue operation will work in conjunction with local zoos. Post-capture, efforts will focus on:

• Securing funding for enclosures
• Ensuring adherence to best practice training methods for handlers

Need for Financial Support

The successful capture of “P Diddy” is only the first step. To ensure the long-term safety of both the local population and the crocodile itself, a suitable enclosure or relocation site must be secured. This is where your financial support plays a crucial role.

• Without adequate funding, the rescue team faces the daunting challenge of finding a temporary or permanent home for “P Diddy”, potentially putting the local community at continued risk.
• Your donation will directly contribute to:
  • Building or preparing a bespoke enclosure at a local zoo, meeting the complex needs of a saltwater crocodile.
  • Relocation costs, should a suitable alternative habitat be identified outside of the area.

Every Contribution Counts

In supporting this effort, you are not only ensuring the safety of the people in South Lombok but also contributing to the welfare and conservation of saltwater crocodiles. Donations of all sizes are welcome and can be made through:

• Bali Reptile Rescue
  WA +62 821-4638-0270
• Lombok Wildlife Park
  info@lombokwildlifepark.com  or Call +62 818 261 979

Updates to Follow

As more information becomes available, this news article will be updated to reflect the progress of the capture operation and the subsequent care of “P Diddy”.