Activists want croc returned to wild

Animal rights activists urged the authorities on Saturday to return a captured giant crocodile back to the wild, but the mayor of the town where it was caught refused, saying it posed a threat to local residents.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) said the 6.1-meter saltwater crocodile nicknamed “Lolong” should be returned to its natural habitat because if it remained in captivity it was likely to develop abnormal behavior and endanger its caretakers and visitors to a proposed park.

Mayor Edwin Cox Elorde of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, said about 1,300 residents who rely on fishing could be attacked by the crocodile, believed to be the largest in captivity in the world.

Wildlife officer Ron Sumilier, who led the team that trapped the animal last week, said it may have attacked a fisherman who disappeared from the area about two months ago.

Ashley Fruno, senior campaigner for Peta Asia-Pacific, said natural conditions could never be replicated in zoos or animal shelters, resulting in physical and mental stress for the captive animals.

“It’s clear the promoters of this park are thinking only of their bank balance, without so much as an afterthought for the animal’s well-being,” she said.

Elorde said he was hurt by suggestions the crocodile was captured for the financial benefit of local officials. He had announced that Lolong would be the main attraction at an eco-park to attract tourists to his remote town. AP