Rare American Crocodile Captured After Dog Killed

A crocodile that had repeatedly returned to canals in the Indian Harbour Beach/Satellite Beach area of Brevard County attacked and killed a dog near South Patrick Drive and Sea Park Blvd, with residents saying the animal appeared to be carrying a golden retriever. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission agents responded, retrieved the deceased dog from the water, and captured the crocodile on scene — videos shared by residents show officials securing the animal. The FWC said the captured animal is the only confirmed American crocodile documented in the area since 2018, noting occasional sightings can occur as the threatened population recovers and that removals are complicated because the species is federally protected. Reports differ on the animal’s final disposition, with some accounts saying officials relocated it and another saying the FWC decided, after careful consideration, to place it into permanent captivity. The FWC reiterated safety guidance: keep pets leashed, keep children away from the water’s edge, never feed crocodiles, and call the nuisance hotline (866‑FWC‑GATOR) with concerns.