In late September, The Costa Rica Star reported on a project undertaken by the Directorate of Conservation in the Central Pacific Area to install warning signs along the Tarcoles River advising residents and tourists about the presence of potentially dangerous caimans. The heart of the problem is feeding the numerous spectacled caimans (Caiman sclerops) that have migrated to that region from the Caribbean; to wit:

 

The warning signs specifically prohibit feeding the reptiles, which many people see as an act of good faith, but is in fact a danger to humans. These signs will warn about the civil consequences and sanctions that may arise when feeding alligators and other wildlife. In recent months, the areas where tourists park to observe the reptiles have become very dangerous due to these animals losing their innate fear of humans. Transit Police may be assigned to intervene and order vehicles and tourists to leave the areas where the new signs will be posted.

 

Caiman/human encounters in Costa Rica have been uncomfortably increasing in the past few years, and this recently shared YouTube clip, filmed with Go Pro equipment, illustrates why alligators stop fearing humans – to the disadvantage of our communities.