Hyderabad, November 11: It seems to have become accustomed to its new home. Lazing around the rocks sunbathing or having a careless swim, the 10-feet long reptile was having the time of his life.
In absence of any motor boats or on-lookers, the crocodile which was discovered in a pond at Nanakramguda on Monday, had a soothing day. The reptile reportedly came out of water every 20 to 25 minutes and remained visible for 5 to 10 minutes at a stretch.
On Tuesday, it had remained mostly underwater, due to a rescue team, passers-by, media and locals trying to have a glimpse. Many visitors who had specifically come to watch rescue operations went away after learning there were slim chances of the crocodile being rescued on Wednesday.
Forest officials and a rescue team from the Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary, on vigil ever since the reptile was sighted, decided to drain all water from the 40 feet deep pond. They have apparently given up efforts to lure it with chunks of food.
“It is very difficult to catch a crocodile inside water, with the very deep pond adding to the problem. We are now going to drain water out of the pond, which will take at least a day,” said forest range officer (Anti-poaching Squad), Ramana Reddy.
By Wednesday evening, five heavy 10 HP evacuating motors were brought and permission from the Water Works department sought. The rescue team feared the crocodile may perish staying underwater for long hours. The reptile, did the same and stayed underwater when the team was around.
Once the nearly 200-kg crocodile is rescued, it will be moved to its natural habitat in either the Manjira Wildlife sanctuary or another suitable place, as decided by the principal chief conservator and chief wildlife warden.
–Agencies