Two fishermen experienced a moment of pure amazement and adrenaline while fishing in the Pantanal River. The silently approaching alligator made an unusual encounter, recorded on video published on the Vidas no Pantanal profile.
The alligator scared the fishermen. – Photo: Internet/NDThe beauty and diversity of the Pantanal’s fauna is recognized throughout the world, but fishermen rarely get the chance to see the wildlife of this unique ecosystem up close. This is exactly what happened to the two fishermen.
A couple of fishermen noticed something unusual happening in the water near them. The alligator slowly approached the boat, almost furtively. Incredibly, instead of panicking, the fishermen decided to film this unexpected meeting.
Not only did it get closer, but it also started making strange noises, increasing the tension in the boat.
The fishermen, initially wary of the possibility of the reptile entering the boat, remained calm and continued filming the scene. One of them joked, saying: “He liked you. Go get on the boat.
However, before anything more unusual happened, the reptile surprised again. He turned to the river bank and saw a fish.
With a quick and precise movement, he grabbed the fish, crushing it in a matter of seconds. The sound of a fish being devoured by a predator also amazed the fishermen.
One of them exclaimed: “Noise!” and another added with admiration and some fear: “The animal’s intestines are already out.”
The Pantanal is one of the largest flooded systems in the world and is home to a wide variety of animals, including alligators, birds, fish and mammals.
The harmonious coexistence of man and nature is a striking feature of the region, and the fishermen had a unique opportunity to witness this interaction up close.
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Characteristics of an alligator
Pantanal alligators are one of the most iconic and interesting creatures inhabiting this vast wetland ecosystem in central Brazil. AND
These prehistoric reptiles, known scientifically as Cayman Yacareare close relatives of crocodiles and alligators and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Pantanal.
Species of alligators in the Pantanal: The Pantanal is home to mainly three species of alligators: the broad-snouted caiman (Cayman latirostris), spectacled caiman (caiman crocodile) and Pantanal caiman (Cayman Yacare).
The latter is the most common species and is easily recognized by the dark spectacle spots around the eyes.
Size and appearance: Pantanal caimans are medium to large sized reptiles, reaching lengths of up to 2.5 meters, although the average size of most is between 1.5 and 2 meters.
They have an elongated body, scaly skin and sharp teeth. Their jaws are powerful and can deliver a very strong bite.
The alligator is an impressive animal. Photo: Biologist Enrique/Reproduction/NDEcology and food habits: They are opportunistic predators and feed primarily on fish, but also prey on birds, rodents and even small mammals.
As seen in the previous example, they are known for their fast and efficient hunting techniques, snatching up their prey with great speed.
Behavior: During the day, Pantanal alligators prefer to stay in shaded areas, close to water, to avoid excessive heat. At night they become more active in hunting.
They are excellent swimmers and can remain underwater for long periods of time, sometimes raising only the top of their heads to observe their surroundings.
Reproduction: Alligator breeding usually occurs during the rainy season, when females build nests from aquatic vegetation.
The eggs are incubated by nest guardians, usually females, although males may also participate in protecting the nests.
When the babies are born, they are extremely vulnerable to predators, including birds, larger fish, and even other alligators.
Source: Ndmais