DISTRIBUTION OF Crocodylus moreletii Dumeril & Bibron IN TAMAULIPAS, MEXICO

Abstract

Objective: Determine and evaluate the current status of the swamp crocodile in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach: Maps of spatial distribution were made as a contribution to the management and conservation plans of crocodile.  Hundred and twenty-three documents were reviewed, and 41 were selected (nine books, 12 scientific articles, three theses, five official pages, four project reports and eight documents from specialist groups). Field visits were carried out with the support of the fire department and civil protection to monitor the population of crocodiles in the area. Geo-referenced maps were prepared with the documented records and sightings in the distribution area.

Results: It was found that C. moreletii has expanded its distribution to the north of the State and in the south region there are sightings in 14 new bodies of water where they had not been reported. The above could be an indicator that the crocodile population is recovering, and conservation plans should be proposed before the conflict with the human population has a negative effect on this species so important for aquatic ecosystems.

Limitations on study/implications: In the State of Tamaulipas there is not enough information about the presence and location of crocodiles in the different bodies of water in the region. The capture of animals is difficult due to the proximity to the human population and due to the insecurity prevailing in the region.

Findings/conclusions: The crocodile population is expanding to bodies of water where they were not documented within the registered distribution for this species.