Crocodile sightings are becoming increasingly common along the beaches and tourist zones of Puerto Vallarta and Bahía de Banderas, prompting authorities to take coordinated action to prevent dangerous encounters.

In response to a growing number of incidents—including crocodile sightings in pools, marinas, and even resort areas—state and federal agencies have launched a comprehensive plan focused on prevention, education, and surveillance. The goal: to ensure public safety while promoting responsible coexistence with wildlife.

The strategy was developed during the first Interinstitutional Working Group on the Human-Crocodile Relationship, held this week in Puerto Vallarta and organized by the Ministry of Environment and Territorial Development (SEMADET). Participants included representatives from the governments of Jalisco and Nayarit, as well as experts from universities, conservation groups, and the local tourism industry.

The plan is built on three key components:

  • Strengthening coordination between institutions

  • Increasing environmental education and public awareness

  • Enhancing monitoring and prevention in high-risk areas

A public information campaign will soon launch to counter misinformation and update warning signage at key locations, including Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlán, Marina Vallarta, Flamingos, Nuevo Vallarta, and the northern hotel zone of Bahía Blanca.

Experts from Estero El Salado State Park, the University of Guadalajara, and national environmental agencies such as SEMARNAT, CONANP, and CONAFOR contributed research on crocodile behavior—particularly during the rainy season, when river currents can bring the animals closer to shore.

Puerto Vallarta and Bahía de Banderas have seen a steady rise in crocodile encounters over the past five years, including attacks and close calls near mangroves and coastal developments. With these risks growing, authorities agreed to make this working group permanent and use its findings to develop a national model for managing human-wildlife conflicts.

The initiative will officially roll out in August and remain in effect throughout the storm season.