GORV - Digital Magazine Issue #22 | Page 49

OUT THERE WITH JASE ANDREWS Look down: Flattened vegetation, drag marks, and footprints are signs that a crocodile might not be far off. If there are fishermen nearby, be wary of fish scraps as there’s a good chance of attracting a few crocs. Don’t be deceived by calm waters: Crocs love an afternoon basking in the sun so keep an eye out on the river banks. But keep in mind that they like to submerge themselves and wait for prey. If that isn't terrifying enough, crocs can hold their breath for up to an hour, all while slowing their heart rate to a few beats per minute. You might not see movement in the water, but that doesn’t mean there’s no danger floating nearby. Stay in designated areas: Pay attention to the warning signs that state whether certain areas are ‘croc-infested waters’. If you don’t see any signs, stay safe and always assume any body of water, particularly mangrove swamps and rivers, has a crocodile. This means avoiding swimming, fishing, or canoeing, especially in lesser known bodies of water located in croc country. Cold weather won’t protect you: Being cold- blooded, crocs are generally more active during the warmer seasons, but that doesn’t mean they’ll disappear for the rest of the year. A DECADE OF DIRT! Crocs do travel: Even though freshwater crocs aren’t known as man-eaters, that doesn’t mean you won’t find their more aggressive counterpart, the salties, in their habitat. Don’t bother with zig-zagging: It’s a common misconception that you should run away from crocs in a zig-zag because they supposedly can’t make quick turns. These guy can run up to 18km/h so they could probably catch up to you. Instead, aim for the nearest tree and climb as fast as you can. That said, they rarely attack on land and only chase after you if they feel threatened. If worst comes to worst: If for whatever reason you find yourself near or within a crocodile’s jaws, don’t bother trying to pry open its mouth; human strength is nothing against the strongest bite in the world, and they’ll only clamp on harder. A jab to the eyes and punch in the nose should disorientate them and give you some chance of escape. While crocs are perceived as scary and dangerous creatures, they actually don’t pose that much of a threat to humans. Studies reveal you are more likely to be attacked by dogs and horses. As long as we can better educate ourselves on how to be safe and vigilant around crocs, both humans and crocs can co-exist and explore peacefully in the same region. WEBSITE FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM YOUTUBE gorv.com.au 49