By KIM ATIENZA
News struck us when a saltwater crocodile was caught in the Philippines recently.
Considered an endangered species, even in the Philippines, they have been victims of habitat depletion, dynamite fishing and hunting.
The good news is that they are now a protected species.
Their population is said to be bouncing back.
The Philippine freshwater crocodile is also known as the Mindoro crocodile.
It is known as bukarot in Ilocano, and buwaya in general.
Buwaya is one of two species of crocodiles found in the Philippines; the other is the larger saltwater crocodile.
There used to be a hefty population of saltwater crocodiles in the Philippines. But croc hunting almost depleted them.
Are saltwater crocodiles dangerous? Nile and salt water crocodiles are the most dangerous. Not all species, however, attack humans.
Many are afraid of people and may only bite if they are disturbed or taken by surprise.
TRIVIA PA MORE (Various Sources): Crocodiles are large aquatic reptiles that live throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, Australia and America.
Crocodiles generally feed on mammals, fish and birds.
Crocodiles are an ancient lineage and are believed to have changed little since the time of dinosaurs.
Contrary to common perception, crocodiles don’t eat a lot. It isn’t fair, therefore, to compare corrupt, insatiable politicians to them.
Send your questions on anything and everything to Kuya Kim through my Twitter account @kuyakim_atienza using #AlaminKayKuyaKim.
