- Two weeks after an unknown number of crocodiles escaped from a farm in Bonnievale, authorities are still on the hunt for the reptiles.
- A total of 66 crocodiles have been found and half of them have been euthanised.
- An investigation has been launched to establish if the farm owner was negligent.
Two weeks after an unknown number of crocodiles escaped from a farm in Bonnievale in the Western Cape, 66 of the missing reptiles have been recaptured or euthanised.
The crocodiles escaped from a breeding farm outside Bonnievale on Wednesday, 3 February. CapeNature and the police launched a massive search operation, including nightly patrols, to locate and recapture the animals.
The crocodiles – ranging in size from 1.2m to 1.5m – escaped through a hole in a fence enclosing the camp they were kept in, Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell said.
Of the 66 crocodiles found, 34 crocodiles have been euthanised.
Bredell added that CapeNature had already started an investigation into the escape of the animals. This would include determining whether the owner was in breach of any permit regulations.
CapeNature continues to patrol the river but the overgrown river and dense vegetation makes the conditions difficult, Bredell said.
"The traps remain in place and the patrols will continue until further notice. I want to thank the various role players who mobilised immediately to assist in the operation to recapture the crocodiles," he added.
Anyone who spots a crocodile has been urged to refrain from approaching the reptile and instead immediately alert the Bonnievale police on (023) 616 8060.