Mysterious Crocodile Found Lurking in Greek Lake

Telegraph
8 July 2014


A six-foot crocodile has been found in a lake on the Greek island of Crete, terrifying locals who claim it's been feeding on lambs and ducks

It seems the Greek island of Crete is a hot attraction for crocodiles - not just tourists - as a six-foot (1.82-metre) croc was spotted last week in a man-made lake near the seaside town of Rethymno.

It is an unusual sight, as wild crocodiles are not known to inhabit Europe - most are found spread across Africa, Asia and America.

Residents have been blaming the crocodile for missing lambs and ducks, and souvenir shops are now selling inflatable crocodiles.

"Yes, they (the locals) are very upset because they are in danger. There are farm lands and properties (nearby) and people are in danger, they are afraid," said local resident Nikistratos Charokopou.

"There are rivers from which people draw water to irrigate their fields and they are afraid to visit their land," he added.

Regional official Vangelis Mamangakis said on Monday it was unclear how long it has been there.

Mamangakis said the crocodile was probably a pet that grew too big for its owner, who probably dumped him in the lake.

Parts of the lake were fenced off and efforts will be made on Thursday to remove the crocodile.