"Many of the crocodiles have been recaptured, but more than half are still on the loose." —Some 15,000 crocodiles escaped a crocodile farm in South Africa after the human owner opened the gates last weekend to prevent a storm surge during heavy rains. That's a lot of crocodiles! These lovable creatures have been unfairly besmirched by their association with horrible footwear in recent years, and also by two guys from San Diego who write some nice songs but are far too derivative of Glasgow's forever awesomer and underrated Jesus and Mary Chain.
"On the rare chance you do find yourself or a loved one clenched in the teeth of a crocodilian, experts say fight with all your might. 'Smack them and punch them in the nose, eyes, and head, and fight them with everything you have,' said Todd Hardwick, owner of the Pesky Critters trapping program. 'Most of the time they'll let go and move off.' And remember, experts say, crocs and alligators are just trying to do their part for the ecosystem. 'Crocodilians are top-level predators. They keep other populations healthy by stopping them from overpopulating,' said Hord." -Discovery reporter Julienne Gage reveals her preference for alligators and crocodiles [...]
A little late on this, but it's still good: Police in Naples seized a crocodile an alleged mobster had been using to terrorize victims into paying protection money. The crocodile, discovered living on the man's terrace, "was placed in the care of Italy's forestry service," which sounds like the worst punishment of all.
