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The National Environment and
Planning Agency (NEPA) is reminding all Jamaicans that crocodiles are
protected under the Wild Life Protection Act and should not be
captured, traded or paid for, under the law. It is illegal to possess
a crocodile or any part of the animal.
The Agency has received reports
of several incidents where unauthorized persons have or have attempted
to capture crocodiles. In one incident, NEPA’s offices were invaded by
persons demanding payment for an animal which had been seized from
residents of a community in Kingston.
Please note that it is against
the law to capture any protected animal, to have the animal dead or
alive, or any part of a protected animal in your possession.
Therefore, anyone caught in possession of a crocodile or any part of
the animal is liable to be arrested and charged for breaches of the
Wild Life Protection Act. Anyone found guilty could be fined up to
$100,000 or twelve (12) months imprisonment or both.
The Agency is also reminding
citizens that during the rainy season, crocodiles may move with flood
waters to find dry areas at the edge so as to bask in the sun. As a
result, they may be seen in drains, gullies or along the roadways
close to their natural habitats. Please report all sightings to NEPA
at 754-7540 or 1-888-991-5005. Under no circumstances should any
unauthorized person attempt to capture the animal. Crocodiles can
become dangerous when cornered and could attack.
NEPA would also like to remind
the public that it is still crocodile nesting season. The season runs
from February to August each year. During the nesting season, these
animals can be particularly aggressive in protecting their eggs and
young.
The Agency is therefore reminding
all citizens to stay away from known crocodile habitats. All persons
living in or near river-courses or wetland areas are being asked to
take special care at this time. Crocodiles are likely to attack if
their young or eggs are threatened. If you MUST enter or work in
marshy or wetland areas, please exercise extreme caution.
Remember, regardless of
circumstances, maiming or killing these animals, could cost you up to
$100,000 or twelve (12) months imprisonment, if convicted.
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