Walhi regrets the killing of crocodile

Walhi regrets the killing of crocodile

SAMARINDA, East Kalimantan: The Indonesian Environmental Forum
(Walhi) regrets the killing of a rare giant crocodile (Crocodilus
porosus) in Bulungan regency, a local Walhi official said here
yesterday.

Abrianto Amin said killing the crocodile did not solve any
problems, including why crocodiles in the local habitat often
attacked people.

"It could be because its habitat has been disturbed," he was
quoted by Antara as saying.

On Dec. 6, Bulungan residents and local police killed a
gigantic crocodile measuring six meters in length and 2.5 meters
in diameter.

The crocodile had attacked 14-year-old Mohtar, who was
swimming in the Kayan River.

In Samarinda Seberang regency, residents have been hunting
another crocodile which attacked Mangindara, 7, in Mahakam River.

"It is an indication that the habitat of the endangered
species has been disturbed and they have started to move to
surrounding villages," Amin said.

In the 1960s, Kayan River was known as a haven for crocodiles
in the region and people could easily see dozens of crocodiles
swimming in the river. There is also a tributary called Sungai
Buaya (Crocodile River).

The species has been threatened with extinction because of
illegal hunting for its skin. There is no data on the number of
existing specimens in the wild. (swe)