Managing Sarawak’s crocodile populations

“I have no fear of losing my life – if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo or a snake, mate, I will save it,”

– The late Steve Irwin, a beloved wildlife conservationist.

Among all the animals in the animal kingdom, the one that I am most fond of and fascinated by is the crocodile.

There is something so majestic about these living fossils – their powerful jaws, armoured bodies, and ancient lineage evoke a sense of awe and respect.

Crocodiles have been around for millions of years, surviving eras that wiped out countless other species.

Imagine surviving the great extinction and emerging as ultimate survivors to this present day.

These incredible creatures have outlived the dinosaurs by some 66 million years and have even survived two ice ages.

In Malaysia, Sarawak is particularly prominent for its crocodiles roaming across its rivers.

The most common species of crocodiles found in the state is the Crocodylus porosus or saltwater crocodile.

In addition to the saltwater crocodile, another species found in Sarawak is the Tomistoma schlegelii, or false gharial.

This species has a longer snout and primarily eats fish, thus making it less likely to attack humans.

Despite their fearsome reputation, crocodiles are essential for the ecological health of their environments.

Crocodiles play a crucial role in their ecosystems as apex predators because they help to control the populations of other animals and ensuring the health of the ecosystem.

By preying on sick animals, crocodiles prevent the spread of diseases.

Without crocodiles, there would be an overpopulation of sick animals which could disrupt the ecosystem and lead to widespread disease.

The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) plays a vital role in managing crocodile populations, ensuring their protection, and promoting awareness among local communities about coexistence with these ancient reptiles.

The SFC’s Swift Wildlife Action Team (SWAT) is dedicated to handling human-crocodile conflicts and ensuring the safety of both people and crocodiles.

With well-trained personnel and specialised equipment, the team responds to incidents and educates the public on how to live safely alongside crocodiles.

It is crucial to point out that understanding crocodile behaviour is crucial for managing human-crocodile interactions.

Crocodiles generally avoid humans unless they feel threatened or are protecting their territory, particularly during mating or nesting seasons.

Studies have found that crocodiles do not attack without reason, and many incidents can be prevented with proper precautions and awareness.

In some parts of the world, crocodiles are considered endangered species.

However, Sarawak is the only state in Malaysia permitted to harvest saltwater crocodiles due to the increase in their population and reports of attacks over the years.

The SFC monitors crocodile populations and issues permits for controlled hunting based on specific criteria, ensuring that the harvesting is sustainable and does not threaten the overall population.

Education and awareness campaigns are essential for promoting coexistence between humans and crocodiles.

The SFC’s 3M (Mengenali, Memahami dan Memulihara) Buaya campaign educates local communities about crocodiles, their behaviour, and how to live safely alongside them.

By raising awareness and promoting responsible behaviour such as proper waste disposal to avoid attracting crocodiles, the campaign aims to reduce human-crocodile conflicts and protect both people and wildlife.

In a significant step towards improving crocodile management, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan is leading a delegation to Australia to study the methods used by the country to manage crocodile habitats.

This was revealed earlier this week by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who said this effort aimed to control the increasing crocodile population in Sarawak.

He said the state government would adopt the same system after the study in Australia had been completed.

“We will study how they manage crocodiles, when they kill crocodiles, what they do with the crocodiles, following the guidelines of the United Nations (UN),” he said.

He made these remarks after officiating at the 10^th World Herpetology Congress at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on  Aug 5.

In addition, the Premier said the delegation would also study how humans and crocodiles could coexist.

He pointed out that the crocodiles in the northern and southern regions of Australia were are different, thus highlighting how this needed to be studied including their river systems.

“In the northern region of Australia, I have seen for myself, crocodiles and buffaloes coexist. Crocodiles do not eat the buffaloes; how can they coexist? They are in the same habitat, but they do not kill each other.

“So as long as crocodiles do not kill humans, how can humans and crocodiles coexist? The delegation will study this matter,” he said.

Crocodiles are truly remarkable creatures, embodying the resilience and adaptability of nature.

Their survival through millions of years and various environmental changes is a testament to their strength and evolutionary success.

By understanding and respecting these ancient reptiles, we can ensure their continued survival and the health of the ecosystems they inhabit.

In a world where many species face the threat of extinction, the survival of crocodiles is a reminder of the enduring power of nature and the importance of conservation.