I Am An Underwater Enthusiast And Videographer, And Here Are Some Of The Closest Moments I Had With Apex Predators

Banco Chinchorro is also home to an estimated population of about 500 American Crocodiles (Crocodylus Acutus), the densest congregation of American crocodiles in the world, the most genetically pure crocodiles of this species due to the geographic isolation. These crocodiles are powerful and highly intelligent predators and each individual has their own personality with well-defined characteristics.

The crocodiles are extraordinary creatures, and being in their presence, so close, in their natural domain, was truly breathtaking experience for me. For those who are wondering why they don’t attack me and instead let me approach them undisturbed and even touch them, the answer is simply that they could attack at any moment if they had the opportunity.

Even though most of these crocodiles are much larger than us humans, sometimes by a wide margin, in general, they view an adult human as "too big" and less convenient prey than the creatures they often eat, which are much smaller in size, such as fish, birds, and crustaceans.

That being said, crocodiles certainly don’t disdain larger prey and may also attack humans should the opportunity arise. The “safest” way to approach these crocodiles is directly in front of them (due to their limited visual range,) and at their level or below them in the water column. Straight in front of them because usually when they strike, they snap to the side, and do not lunge forward with a bite. They are highly intelligent animals, and they are constantly observing you. Their eyes are always following your movements in the water.

Sometimes happens that even if they are approached from the front, they slowly but steadily position themselves on your side, ready to take advantage of any possible moment of distraction to assess the attack. Never take your eyes off the crocodile if you swim with them!!

I have never had an accident, and I have never used any kind of protection in doing these activities but make no mistake, this does not mean that I am reckless. It is important to mention that I, and all the people I know, who are involved in this kind of activities, are professionals in the field of activities related to nature and to the interaction with apex predators.

Each of these animals has different behavior and therefore the approach is taken to get close to them in the water is different. In addition, to realize my activities, I always rely on the collaboration of local guides, who know very well the particular characteristics of the places and wildlife.