An expert explains the disturbing theory about crocodiles faking drowning behavior and reveals the truth behind this unsettling idea.
Recently, a video of a crocodile in the Barito River in Borneo went viral.
Many people saw the crocodile rolling on its back with its limbs waving in the air.
This strange behavior led to a disturbing theory.
Some believed the crocodile was pretending to drown to lure humans into the water.
As the video gained millions of views, experts began to respond to these claims.
Brandon Sideleau, a researcher at Charles Darwin University, shared his thoughts on this theory.
He specializes in human and crocodile interactions and believes that the idea of crocodiles mimicking drowning is unlikely.
What does the video show?
In the video, viewers can see the crocodile looking as if it is in distress. Its limbs are flailing, which may create the impression that it is struggling.
However, experts suggest there is a simpler explanation for this behavior.
Brandon Sideleau pointed out that crocodiles may exhibit unusual behavior for various reasons.
He has seen many crocodiles displaying what might seem like “abnormal” actions, but these can often be explained.
Expert clarifies the disturbing theory of crocodiles pretending to drown
Brandon explained that the flailing limbs might indicate that the crocodile has prey in its mouth.
Crocodiles sometimes spin underwater while holding food, and their limbs may rise as they do this.
He explained: “I think it’s probably got some prey items in its mouth because I’ve seen it on some of the rivers here where saltwater crocodiles will kind of spin around underwater, you’ll see their hands up in the air when they’ve got food in their jaws.
“That would be my guess. It could even be neurological, but my guess would be prey.”
This analysis suggests that the crocodile is not trying to lure humans but is engaged in its natural behavior.
Professor Graham Webb, another expert, also commented on the situation.
He called the theory of crocodiles pretending to drown “complete creative journalism” without any factual basis.
He suggested that the crocodile might have had its tail caught, which could prevent it from swimming normally.
The reality of crocodile behavior
Brandon Sideleau emphasized that crocodiles are more intelligent than many people think.
However, he firmly stated that they do not have the ability to mimic human actions like pretending to drown.
Crocodiles operate based on instinct rather than learned behavior.
They do not have the capability to understand the concept of luring humans into the water.
Crocodiles are known to be dangerous, and in Indonesia, about 100 people are killed each year by saltwater crocodiles.
Despite this, it is essential to understand that these incidents occur in specific contexts.
Attacks are more common in areas where humans need to enter the water frequently, which increases the chances of encountering crocodiles.
Professor Graham Webb said: “Crocodiles are also much more intelligent than they are often given credit for… but they certainly would not be mimicking a person drowning to attract prey.
“It definitely wouldn’t be trying to lure people in because there’d be no way for it to actually learn that.”
The spread of misinformation can have serious consequences.
Brandon cautioned that false theories about crocodiles might lead to poor management strategies.
If people believe that crocodiles are pretending to drown, they might propose harmful methods for dealing with these animals.
Such strategies could endanger both crocodile populations and human lives.
Brandon noted, “Other misinformation can be much more damaging if people are suggesting management strategies that are potentially damaging to the crocodile population or dangerous to the human population.”
The public must be informed about crocodile behavior to ensure safety and effective management.
For those in areas where crocodiles are present, caution is essential.
People should be aware of their surroundings when near water known to have crocodiles.
Understanding how these animals behave can help reduce the risk of dangerous encounters.