Indonesia Faces Escalating Human-Crocodile Conflict with Highest Global Attack Rate

Habitat loss, human expansion, and lack of protective measures intensify deadly encounters with saltwater crocodiles.

Indonesia recorded 179 crocodile attacks and 92 fatalities in the past year, the highest globally, according to the CrocAttack database.
Recent fatal incidents, including a 51-year-old man in Central Sulawesi, highlight the ongoing risk to human lives near crocodile habitats.
Saltwater crocodiles, known for their aggression and adaptability, are the primary species involved in these attacks, thriving in diverse and expanding habitats.
Human activities such as mining, agriculture, and waterway modifications have created ideal conditions for crocodiles in populated regions like East Kalimantan and Bangka-Belitung.
Experts stress the urgent need for coexistence strategies and preventive measures, such as warning systems, which are notably absent in Indonesia compared to countries like Australia.