As all types of threats are surrounding Lebanon, a unique, though dangerous, kind of “animal” threat has come to light today. Although we don’t often get to report such news in our country, the emergence of the so-called “Nile Crocodile” definitely stirred a nationwide “hilarious” reaction as all is deemed possible in Lebanese Pandora’s box.
According to al-Joumhouria newspaper, one crocodile was spotted at the seaside area of the Beirut River, in the part stretching between the notorious slaughterhouse and the Sukleen headquarters.
The young crocodile, whose age was estimated to range between 3 to 5 years, appeared to be a “Nile Crocodile” (Crocodylus Niloticus) which is considered one of the most dangerous species of crocodiles and is responsible for the hundreds of deaths of humans every year.
In remarks published by al-Joumhouria daily, veterinary Doctor Walid Darwich noted that the “Nile Crocodile” is quite widespread throughout Africa and is between 4 to 6 meters, weighing around 500 kilograms.
The “Nile Crocodile” is an opportunistic apex predator and a very aggressive species of crocodile that is capable of taking almost any animal within its range. They are generalists, taking a variety of prey.
According to the daily, citizens are urged not to near the location where the crocodile was spotted or kill it in case approaching its territory.
Both the caretaker Environment and Agriculture Ministers Nazem el-Khoury and Hussein el-Hajj Hassan were reportedly contacted, vowing to take the appropriate action to address this unique phenomenon.
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