31/08/2026
To new residents and visitors of the Placencia Lagoon, welcome! You are living alongside an incredible diversity of wildlife—and in a place where nature, culture, and community are deeply connected.
In Maya creation stories, the crocodile is seen as a guardian, connected to the earth and the protection of the natural world. For those of us who call Placencia Lagoon home, perhaps we can carry that same mindset of guardianship and protection.
When you live in Croc Country, it’s important to understand the do’s and don’ts of living alongside wildlife. Following a few simple guidelines can help keep you, your family, and your pets safe while allowing us all to continue enjoying the amazing wildlife around us.
🚫 1. Don’t throw food scraps into the lagoon or directly feed wildlife.
Feeding animals can cause them to associate humans with food, creating dangerous situations and potentially increasing the risk of an attack.
🌙 2. Don’t swim in the lagoon from dusk until dawn. These are active hunting hours for crocodiles.
🐊 3. Thanks to everyone who has contributed observations to our community science database, we know that crocodile activity in Placencia Lagoon increases between September and December. During this time especially, pets should never be allowed to roam or approach the water unattended.
🌱 4. Leave some mangroves and natural vegetation along the water’s edge. Natural vegetation creates an important buffer between people and crocodiles while also supporting the ecosystem. Healthy shoreline habitat provides refuge for fish and other wildlife—and healthy fish populations help maintain a strong, natural food source for crocodiles.
🐊🌿 Education is the key to coexistence. As stewards of Placencia Lagoon, it is our responsibility to know the facts, understand the do’s and don’ts, and take responsibility for our pets, our families, and our community when living alongside wildlife.
We don’t have to fear wildlife—but we do need to respect it, understand it, and make informed decisions when sharing space with it.
Photo of the Guardian Crocodile the looks over the Placencia Lagoon
