There are growing fears that increased crocodile poaching could lead to a fallout in wildlife tourism in the Black River and jeopardise thousands of livelihoods in the southwest Jamaica region.

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) sounded the alarm in a recent interview with OBSERVER ONLINE, noting a marked decrease in the crocodile population in the region, which it said may be an indication of increased human interaction with the endangered species.

“There may be an increase in human interaction with crocodiles…this trend is signalling a worrying fact that the natural habitats of this species are being encroached, modified or destroyed, resulting in these animals being encountered more frequently,” NEPA said in an email correspondence.

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It cited poaching of the island’s American Crocodile, the only species of the reptile in the country, as a growing problem in Jamaica.

“It is important to note at this point that there is continued persecution and poaching of these protected animals with the most recent case being the poaching of a large crocodile in a canal along the Black River,” NEPA said.

The environment agency went on to describe the situation as “very concerning” because the Black River is the only area in Jamaica where crocodiles form an important aspect of the tourism product and provide jobs for many tour operators on the river.

Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA) estimates that the Black River area attracts some 70,000 guests per annum, with the crocodile being the main attraction, according to JHTA President Robin Russell.

“The Black River, which is the longest river in Jamaica, boasts many types of animals but crocodiles are the leading attraction for the area and a major source of livelihood for the people of the community,” he explained. “Local tour operators, hotels, restaurants and other hospitality and tourism sector operators benefit from the visitors who come to Black River to experience the various crocodile adventures. The area has considerable historical significance as well.”

Russell said based on dialogue with local tour operators and community representatives in Black River, there is significant crocodile poaching in the area.

What’s fueling the illegal hunting of the reptiles?

According to reports, there is a thriving black market for crocodile meat and eggs in Jamaica. The reptile’s meat reportedly fetches as much as $5,000 a pound, more than 10 times the price of chicken meat.

Some people also kill the crocodile out of fear due to lack of education on the reptiles, despite the many public awareness campaigns by NEPA and conservationists.

The JHTA has made it the association’s duty to help implement systems that offer some protection against poaching, Russell told OBSERVER ONLINE.

“The JHTA has been a constant advocate for the assignment of game wardens, particularly on the Black River. We have been involved with NEPA with respect to the training and certification of these game wardens, particularly during the months of May and October when we typically have heavy rainfall, and crocodiles often emerge from their habitat. The wardens capture them and return them safely to their natural environment,” he said.

The JHTA president said the association has also partnered with the Galleon Beach Fishing Sanctuary to deliver a public education programme to schools which stresses the importance of mangroves and the need to protect endangered species.

Crocodiles are one of Jamaica’s many endangered animal species and are protected by law. Capturing or killing the animal is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act (section 20). Persons found guilty of this offence are liable to a fine of up to $100,000 or 12 months imprisonment.