RONDÔNIA, BRAZIL — A black caiman measuring about four meters (13 feet) was rescued by firefighters in Guajará-Mirim, on the Mamoré River, on Thursday (24), after it was found injured near boats that transport passengers between Brazil and Bolivia. The animal is suspected to have been hit by a boat the previous night. After the rescue, the reptile was taken to a safe area compatible with its natural habitat.

According to the Fire Department, the team was called by workers at the Guajará-Mirim Port, who noticed the animal near the riverbank. When they arrived, firefighters found that the caiman was injured and alert. Capt. Raimundo Santos, commander of the Fire Department in the municipality, said the animal was initially on the access ramp to the river before returning to the water.

The reptile's presence also attracted the attention of residents, who approached to observe and record images. In response, the rescue team isolated the area to protect the animal and prevent risks to the public. With support from the Environmental Police and port workers, the caiman was lassoed and transported with the help of a speedboat to an area near Guajará-Mirim Waterfall, considered compatible with its natural habitat.

Biologist Marcela Alvares identified the animal as a black caiman (Melanosuchus niger). According to the specialist, the presence of these animals near areas occupied by people may be related to the disposal of food scraps in the river. She warned that providing food can cause the animals to become accustomed to human presence and associate these locations with food availability, increasing the risk of close encounters.

The Fire Department said it is common to see wildlife in the region, particularly near Guajará-Mirim Waterfall. Commander Raimundo Santos advised that when people encounter animals such as caimans and snakes, they should not attempt to interact with or remove them. The recommendation is to isolate the area to prevent people from approaching and immediately contact the Fire Department or Environmental Police to carry out the rescue and move the animal to a suitable area.

Amazon Agency