Mongabay-India
When crocodiles and humans live close to each other, unfortunate clashes are common. But Charotar, a 4000 square km region in the western state of Gujarat makes a rare case for co-existence. Marsh crocodiles or muggers have been living close to humans for decades here. The people recognize that the crocodiles are wild, and acknowledge that the village ponds and the canals that connect their villages are homes to these creatures. They keep their distance from the animal and in turn, the crocodiles get their space.
While there are stray incidents, some even fatal, the story of co-existence between the two species – human and crocodile – has sparked global interest. Understanding the reptile, empathy, and perhaps even affection, along with tolerance can be the key to the continued safety of humans and conservation of muggers.
- Runtime5 minutes
- LanguageEnglish
- CountryIndia
Mongabay-India
When crocodiles and humans live close to each other, unfortunate clashes are common. But Charotar, a 4000 square km region in the western state of Gujarat makes a rare case for co-existence. Marsh crocodiles or muggers have been living close to humans for decades here. The people recognize that the crocodiles are wild, and acknowledge that the village ponds and the canals that connect their villages are homes to these creatures. They keep their distance from the animal and in turn, the crocodiles get their space.
While there are stray incidents, some even fatal, the story of co-existence between the two species – human and crocodile – has sparked global interest. Understanding the reptile, empathy, and perhaps even affection, along with tolerance can be the key to the continued safety of humans and conservation of muggers.
- Runtime5 minutes
- LanguageEnglish
- CountryIndia