Forest Department officials rescued a crocodile weighing approximately 200 kg after a two-hour operation, with villagers assisting in the rescue
An eight-foot crocodile weighing approximately 200 kg was captured after entering a residential area in Janawad village of Bidar district. Forest Department officials conducted a two-hour rescue operation with assistance from residents. Reports of additional crocodiles in Janawad Lake have raised concerns among villagers.
Bidar: An eight-foot crocodile weighing approximately 200 kg was captured by Forest Department officials after it reportedly emerged from Janawad Lake and entered a residential area in Janawad village of Bidar taluk.
The reptile's appearance caused concern among residents, who alerted the authorities. Forest officials reached the location and conducted a rescue operation lasting nearly two hours.
Villagers assisted the rescue team in capturing the crocodile. Following the operation, officials advised residents to exercise caution, particularly near the lake and surrounding water bodies.
Bidar Crocodile Rescue Operation Lasts Two Hours
According to local reports, the crocodile entered the village from Janawad Lake, prompting residents to contact the Forest Department.
Officials arrived at the location and began efforts to capture the reptile. The operation continued for approximately two hours before the crocodile was secured.
The reptile reportedly measured eight feet in length and weighed around two quintals, equivalent to 200 kg. Residents cooperated with Forest Department personnel during the operation. Details regarding the crocodile's subsequent relocation were not immediately available.
Reports of More Crocodiles in Janawad Lake Raise Concerns
The incident has also raised concerns among villagers following reports that additional crocodiles may be present in Janawad Lake. However, the number of crocodiles in the lake has not been officially confirmed.
Forest officials advised residents to remain cautious around water bodies and avoid approaching crocodiles if they are spotted.
The incident has brought attention to interactions between wildlife and residential communities located near lakes and other water sources.
Previous Crocodile Encounters Reported in Bidar District
Bidar district has witnessed similar incidents involving crocodiles entering areas used by residents.
In September 2025, a juvenile crocodile measuring approximately 2.5 feet was reportedly found in the parking area of a residential property in Multani Colony, Bidar city.
Residents alerted Forest Department personnel, who reportedly rescued the reptile. Heavy rainfall and movement through drainage channels were suggested as possible explanations for its appearance.
Another incident was reported in October 2015 near Chalkapur in Bhalki taluk, where a crocodile sustained injuries to its jaw after being captured near the Karanja River canal system. Veterinarians at Bidar Veterinary College subsequently treated the injured reptile.
Crocodile Sightings Highlight Need for Precautions Near Water Bodies
Lakes, canals and rivers provide habitats for crocodiles, while changes in water levels can influence their movement. During periods of heavy rainfall or flooding, crocodiles may move beyond their usual habitats and occasionally enter areas close to human settlements.
However, no official explanation has been provided for why the crocodile entered Janawad village. The Forest Department's intervention brought the immediate situation under control, while reports of additional crocodiles in the lake remain to be verified.
