California Laws About Crocodiles

Crocodiles are a source of fascination, most likely due to their prehistoric appearance. With deceptive speed, the reptiles can overtake prey and either wrestle it into submission or swallow it whole. Crocodiles prefer warm, moist climates, and despite their angry and aggressive temperament are sometimes kept as household pets by exotic-animal lovers. California law defines crocodiles and other reptiles as wild animals and generally prevents state residents from possessing them.

  1. Definition and Rationale

    • Reptiles such as crocodiles, snakes and snapping turtles are defined as wild animals by California Code 671.1. Lawmakers considered exotic animals a threat to native species, farming and general public welfare. California Code 671.1 has a grandfather provision allowing owners to keep crocodiles and other exotic animals as pets if they were in possession prior to 1992.

    Legal Requirements

    • Any crocodile brought into the state for any reason, such as an animal exhibition, must be registered with the California Department of Fish and Game. The person transporting the crocodile must apply for a permit in advance of bringing the reptile into the state. The owner or transporter must give state officials a specific route of travel and post a bond to repay the state for any expenses in locating, trapping and confining an escaped animal.

    Crocodile Dangers

    • Crocodiles are specifically deemed "detrimental animals" in California Code 671.1 because of their potential danger to humans, domesticated pets and other wildlife. With scaly, long bodies and extremely sharp teeth, crocodiles cast imposing figures. When hungry or provoked, they may attack any mammal, including humans.

    Crocodile Diet

    • Generally, crocodiles' diet consists of fish, and crocs usually seek food in the early-evening hours. Their physical appearance gives them an advantage against their prey, as their coloring and skin type blend in with swampy surroundings.

    Endangered Species

    • Several species of crocodiles, including the American crocodile, are listed as endangered or threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While crocodiles in the United States are found primarily in the Florida wetlands or along the Southern Gulf Coast, some have been seen on the Baja Peninsula of Mexico, just across the California border.

    Violations and Penalties

    • California Code 2050-2115.5 endorses the federal Endangered Species Act, which applies fines of up to $10,500 for harassing, wounding or killing an animal belonging to a protected species. Also, a person knowingly and intentionally violating state law on wild animals may face a fine of $10,000 for each rule broken, according to California Code 2125(a). Additionally, prosecutors may pursue criminal charges in court, and judges may impose up to 180 days of jail time on conviction for a misdemeanor.