Crocodile Sightings Prompt Beach Closures in Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta

Civil protection and environmental authorities in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, issued an urgent safety alert after a wild crocodile was spotted near popular tourist beaches. Lifeguard squads and ecological inspectors temporarily restricted access to stretches of shoreline, deployed signage and increased surveillance, and plan to capture and relocate the animal to a protected mangrove reserve. Officials attribute the reptile’s presence to seasonal rains that raise river and estuary levels, driving crocodiles toward coastal areas.

Similar alerts were issued in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, where recent heavy rains have pushed crocodiles from rivers and estuaries onto several beaches, including Playa del Holi, Boca de Tomates, Flamingos, Playa de Oro and Palmares. The municipal Protection Civil and fire departments placed red and purple flags to prohibit swimming, urged residents and tourists to keep a safe distance, and instructed anyone who sees a crocodile to call 911. Captured animals are being relocated to safe natural habitats.