What started as a seemingly harmless selfie turned into a terrifying ordeal when a tourist climbed into a crocodile enclosure, mistaking a 15-foot predator for a lifelike statue. Within seconds, the massive reptile lunged, leaving the man seriously injured in an attack caught on camera.
The Incident
On April 28, at Kabug Island Mangrove and Wetlands Park in Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines, a 29-year-old tourist spotted what he thought was a life-sized crocodile replica. In reality, it was a fully grown female named Lalay. Convinced it was safe, the man climbed over the fence with his phone in hand to snap selfies. Moments later, Lalay attacked, clamping onto his arm and biting his thigh.
The Death Roll
Video captured by park visitor Cañete Jie shows the man approaching the murky water with a smile. Suddenly, Lalay lunged, clamping down and performing a death roll — a twisting maneuver crocodiles use to tear apart prey, as noted by the University of Tennessee.
Thirty Minutes of Horror
Witnesses report the man screamed in agony as the crocodile spun violently, holding him in the enclosure for around 30 minutes. In a daring rescue, a park handler jumped in and struck Lalay on the head with a concrete block, finally forcing her to release her grip.
Serious Injuries
Paramedics found severe wounds on the man’s arm and leg. He was rushed to Dr. George T. Hofer Memorial Hospital and required more than 50 stitches. Police Staff Sergeant Joel Sajolga warned, “Nobody should ever enter an animal’s enclosure. This stunt was extremely dangerous and reckless.”
Public Reaction
While many breathed a sigh of relief at the man’s survival, social media erupted with outrage over the risk posed to Lalay. Some users sympathized with the crocodile, commenting, “Poor Lalay! Just relaxing and suddenly attacked for a selfie.” Others joked the crocodile was simply “adjusting for a better angle.”
A Stark Reminder
This shocking encounter serves as a serious warning: wild animals are not props. Enclosures exist to protect both humans and wildlife, and ignoring these boundaries can lead to devastating consequences for both.
