The city of Botucatu in São Paulo state has taken immediate action to protect public safety after a startling discovery. On Friday, May 8, municipal authorities officially closed the lagoon in the Bairro da Mina neighborhood following the confirmed sighting of a crocodile in the water.
The incident first came to light on Wednesday, May 6, when a Sabesp employee named André Dias was working near the area. He noticed unusual movement in the water and initially thought it might be a snake. Upon closer inspection, he and a colleague identified the animal as a crocodile, which was seen swimming across the lagoon and occasionally surfacing.
Concerned for the safety of the many families, children, and elderly residents who use the lagoon for recreation, especially on weekends, Dias recorded the sighting and shared the video on social media as a public warning. His quick thinking helped alert the community before any potential accidents could occur.
In response to the sighting, teams from the Botucatu Secretariat of Security swiftly isolated and posted warning signs around the entire perimeter of the lagoon. The area is now officially off-limits to the public to prevent any dangerous encounters with the reptile.
The local Defense Civil and the Secretariat of the Environment are actively monitoring the situation. They are currently studying and evaluating the appropriate measures to be taken regarding the animal, which was spotted in a region close to the Tietê River.
Authorities have issued a clear and urgent advisory to all residents: do not approach the crocodile under any circumstances. They strongly warn against attempting to feed the animal or trying to capture it without the presence and assistance of specialized wildlife teams.
The closure of the popular recreational spot underscores the potential risks wildlife can pose in urban and peri-urban environments. The swift response by local officials aims to ensure the safety of the community while experts determine the best course of action for the crocodile.
Based on reporting from g1.