A suspected crocodile injured a capsized boater at Everglades National Park / NPS file

On March 10, at approximately 4:43 p.m., National Park Service rangers responded to an apparent crocodile bite at the Flamingo Marina in Everglades National Park. A 68-year-old male reportedly capsized his recreational sailboat in the marina basin and was attempting to swim to shore with his boat when he was observed going under water. 

Park rangers in the area responded immediately to the report and treated the man for a laceration on his leg. They coordinated with Miami Dade Fire and Rescue to transport the patient to the hospital, where he was stable upon transfer to EMS providers. 

Rangers and park biologists are continuing to investigate the incident and monitor the suspected crocodile, a federally threatened species which closely resembles the American alligator.  

The National Park Service is coordinating closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to evaluate the situation and follow the American Crocodile-Human Interaction Response Plan. 

While the park is a safe place to visit, the Park Service reminds visitors to stay alert and exercise caution, especially around wildlife. Swimming or wading is prohibited in all canals, ponds, freshwater lakes, marked channels and boat basins in Everglades National Park.