Crocodile Bites Man After Boat Capsizes In Florida Everglades

American Crocodile. Credit: NPS / file photo.

HOMESTEAD, Florida - A 68-year-old man was bitten by a crocodile after his boat capsized in the Florida Everglades on Sunday, March 10, 2024.

According to the National Park Service, the man capsized his recreational sailboat in the Flamingo Marina basin and was attempting to swim to shore with his boat when he was observed going under water around 4:43 p.m.

Park rangers in the area responded immediately to the report and treated the man for a laceration on his leg. 

They coordinated with Miami Dade Fire and Rescue to airlift the man to the Jackson South Medical Center where he was listed in stable condition.

Rangers and park biologists are continuing to investigate the incident and monitor the suspected crocodile, which the Parks Service says is easily identifiable.

The American crocodile is a federally threatened species which closely resembles the American alligator.  

The National Park Service is coordinating closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to evaluate the situation and follow the American Crocodile-Human Interaction Response Plan.

The National Park Service reminds visitors to stay alert and exercise caution, especially around wildlife. 

Swimming or wading is prohibited in all canals, ponds, freshwater lakes, marked channels and boat basins in Everglades National Park.