Warning to Athirappilly visitors: Beware of increasing deadly creatures in the waters

CHALAKUDY: Alligators are very common in the Chalakudy River. From Athirappilly Falls to Thumburmuzhi, there is a close proximity of crocodiles. Tourists often encounter crocodiles and their young when bathing below Athirappilly Falls.

Crocodiles are regularly seen in the river at places like Kannankuzhi, Vettilapara, Thumburmuzhi and Patheyar. Recently, crocodiles have also appeared at Viripara in Konnakuzhi. Officials from the forest department state that their frequent sightings in residential areas along the river are not due to an increase in their population.

Alligators naturally inhabit the source area of the Chalakudy River. This was confirmed decades ago. Predators such as tigers and hawks prey on the chicks during hatching, resulting in negligible breeding. Those that were swept away in floods have since established a permanent presence in the areas below Athirappilly Falls. It is concluded that the abundance of predators does not significantly increase their population. A favorable factor for the alligator habitat is the fish population in the Chalakudy River. Although crocodiles can be intimidating, there have been no reports of direct attacks on people so far.

The Muthavarachal water source in the Parambikulam region, where the Chalakudy River originates, has been home to crocodiles for over half a century. Fresh water and abundant fish are positive factors for their survival. Female alligators can lay 30 to 40 eggs, most of which are eaten by predators. The average lifespan of these alligators is around 50 years.