Endangered Crocodile Found in Yeoju Stream   

• A rare crocodile found in a public stream in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, has left local officials with an unusual question: Where should it go next? Wildlife experts from South Korea’s National Institute of Biological Resources confirmed on July 21 that the reptile is a Siamese crocodile, a critically endangered species. The crocodile is now staying temporarily at the city’s animal protection shelter while officials decide where to relocate it. Rescue workers captured the animal on July 18 after a passerby reported spotting an unusual reptile in Soyangcheon Stream. Authorities mobilized seven responders to catch it. At first, officials thought the crocodile might be an abandoned pet. They planned to launch the standard 10-day search for the owner. However, identifying it as a protected species made the situation much more complicated. Owning or trading a Siamese crocodile without permission can result in serious criminal penalties. Siamese crocodiles are native to wetlands in Southeast Asia and can grow up to about 4 meters long. The species has been internationally protected since 1975 after its population fell sharply due to poaching and habitat loss. Now, officials must find a safe new home for the unusual visitor while following strict wildlife protection laws. J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1787710872/1613367801