BREAKING NEWS: Hunt intensified for missing crocodile in Davao

Experts from the Philippine Crocodile Rescue and Breeding Center (PCRBC) and has intensified the hunt for the eight-foot crocodile that escaped from Davao city’s mini-zoo.

Psalmer Bernalte of the Kidapawan City Emergency Response Unit (KidCeru) said they already sought the expertise of the crocodile breeders from PCRBC.

The hunt starts Friday night when the crocodile is expected to settle down after staying long in the river, Bernalte said.

A team of seven crocodile experts would be organized to conduct the search operations.

The team has already secured ropes, high-powered flashlights, and other gadgets needed for the hunt. The team, according to Bernalte, also needs soldiers and para-military men to secure them from "unfriendly forces."

Bernalte said the team will not stop the search until the crocodile is recaptured.

The city government will be relocated to the crocodile rescue center at the city's Amas Complex while the local government fixes the mini-zoo.

The crocodile escaped after destroying its pen’s cyclone wire last Saturday.

The crocodile, according to PCRBC head Dr. Cayetano Pomares, belongs to the Crocodylus mindorensis species, which is considered rare and endangered.

The crocodile originated from President Roxas town in North Cotabato.

Pomares have also called on the city government to withdraw the offer of reward money.

“The cash incentive could worsen the problem since many would be interested in getting the cash. This might endanger people,” Pomares told Bernalte.

On Monday, City Mayor Rodolfo Gantuangco announced he would give cash to those who could help the LGU re-capture the crocodile.

“We need only experts to handle this in order to protect the animal and the villagers,” said Pomares.

He said in survival mode, crocodiles, even if raised in captivity, could fight back to protect themselves from harm.

Link from: philstar.com