Wildlife officials capture crocodile in Brevard County

Croc kills Golden Retriever dog, residents express fear

A crocodile, who keeps finding its way back to Brevard County, now has residents concerned again after it kills a Golden Retriever.

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - An American crocodile, believed to have killed a dog in a Brevard County neighborhood, has been captured, according to wildlife officials.

The crocodile had been relocated from the area before but repeatedly found its way back. 

What we know:

According to residents in one Indian Harbour Beach neighborhood, the crocodile was seen carrying what looked like a dog in its mouth. 

Officials with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said they responded to the area on Monday after receiving a report about an incident involving a crocodile and a pet. 

FWC captured the crocodile and decided, "after careful consideration," to place it into permanent captivity.

American crocodiles are a federally protected species. 

What they're saying:

The captured crocodile is the only confirmed American crocodile that has been documented in the area since 2018, according to FWC. But other crocodiles could be in the area. 

"Brevard County represents the northern extent of their natural range, and occasional sightings can occur as their threatened population continues to recover," FWC said in a statement. 

What we don't know:

Wildlife officials have not said where they moved the crocodile.