Panamaram: With water levels rising in the rivers, crocodiles and alligators have begun moving onto the riverbanks to rest, sparking fear among local residents. The sighting of large reptiles venturing onto land has raised alarm amid concerns of a growing population of these creatures across rivers in Wayanad.

In the past, these reptiles were typically spotted only after the monsoon, once the floodwaters receded. However, this year, crocodiles and alligators are being seen more frequently, right from the start of the monsoon, in rivers like Kabani, Kavadam, and Panamaram.

Alligators, in particular, have become a common sight basking on the banks during the daytime, especially in areas such as Valiya Puzhakkara, Kottilam and Koodal Kadavu along the Kabani. The increase in their numbers is attributted to the abundance of food and favorable climatic conditions. The problem is reportedly worse in places where waste is dumped into the rivers under cover of darkness, drawing these reptiles in large numbers.

While crocodiles and alligators have long been a part of the Panamaram river ecosystem, locals now say their numbers have surged noticeably. It’s now common to spot them in all stages of growth, from juveniles to fully grown adults, resting along the banks. Often mistaken for rocks at first glance, these creatures suddenly lunge into the water with a loud splash at the slightest hint of human activity nearby.

Two years ago, a woman from Parakkuni was reportedly attacked by a crocodile, adding to the local anxiety.