Endangered crocodile dies at Washington DC zoo after biting electrical outlet
Male crocodile found dead by staff at Reptile Discovery Center
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A 10-year-old Cuban crocodile died at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo after biting an outlet in its enclosure.
The male crocodile was found dead by staff at the Reptile Discovery Center on 17 December, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) in Washington, DC, said in a statement.
Officials believe the animal tried to attack a recently replaced electrical outlet that was approximately 4.5 feet off the ground sometime between the last inspection of the habitat on 16 December and opening the following day.
“Known for their aggressive behavior, the crocodile pulled the electric equipment off the wall and bit various pieces,” the NZCBI said.
A pathology report will confirm the crocodile’s cause of death.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo has since installed redundant electrical breakers throughout the building.
No animals will be placed in the enclosure as the zoo continues an investigation of the incident.
Cuban crocodiles are critically endangered, with only around 3,000 in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
The crocodile found dead last week hatched in 2012 and was part of a breeding program for the species.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments