Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Puerto Vallarta Civil Protection confirmed that a crocodile captured a dog in the Vena de los Tules canal. It is the third crocodile sighting in the area this year after two were relocated by authorities in February. On February 26, Civil Protection and environmental officials moved a 3.3 m American crocodile from the Canal de los Tules to the Ameca River.
Earlier this year, on April 15, officials raised purple warning flags at Playa Holi and Playa Flamingos following reports of crocodile presence on nearby shorelines.
Regional estimates indicate between 200 and 250 American crocodiles inhabit the Banderas Bay area, a decline from the 250 individuals over one meter recorded in the 2012 census, according to Profepa and local experts.
Beaches such as Boca de Tomates, adjacent to the Estero Boca Negra, are officially closed to swimming because of constant crocodile presence in the mangrove-fed inlet.
Civil Protection notes that relocation efforts often fail since these canals and estuaries form part of the crocodile’s natural habitat and the reptiles frequently return after being moved.
Authorities urge residents and visitors not to swim or bring pets to any area marked with crocodile warning signs. Civil Protection continues to monitor the Vena de los Tules canal and will update safety measures as needed.
