The relocation of a crocodile that laid its eggs in a Florida Keys front yard reflects shift in policy regarding the threatened reptiles.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials say the crocodile was moved from a Lower Matecumbe Key neighborhood last week to undeveloped bayside waters about 4 miles away. The agency is watching over the eggs.
State wildlife officials previously avoided relocating crocodiles because the animals are territorial and tend to return to their usual stomping grounds. The commission's crocodile response coordinator tells The Key West Citizen that the agency's policy has evolved since a dog was snatched by a crocodile in Key Largo last summer.
Now wildlife officers will relocate large crocodiles from high-use recreation areas and private properties when people are concerned about their presence.
More Local Stories:
