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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.

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In Indonesien hat ein Krokodil eine Frau getötet. (Symbolbild)

Overview

  • 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.