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British Waterways dismisses reports of crocodile in River Lee

13th Dec 2011

Ecologists from British Waterways have stated that they do not believe there is a crocodile or alligator in the River Lee, following rumours of a beast lurking in the waters near the Olympic stadium.

A boater’s report of seeing a goose suddenly being pulled beneath the surface of the river sparked national news coverage, including in The Sun and on the BBC News website.

River is too cold

However, British Waterways’ ecologist Leela O’Dea says: “It is very unlikely that a crocodile could survive in the River Lee, as they need a much warmer environment. Also, crocodiles do not stay under the water all the time – they bask on the surface – so somebody would have spotted it.”

In response to the report of the goose being dragged under water “so fast it didn't make a sound”, Leela adds: “This does not sound like a crocodile. They wrestle with their prey and cause turbulence.”

Pike, catfish or mink

However, British Waterways has not dismissed the possibility that some other large water creature was responsible for the goose’s demise.

“It could be something like a big pike or a catfish. Mink can prey on ducks, although a goose might be a bit big for them. In some areas you get terrapins which get dumped and have taken to the conditions well - they can get to the size of dinner plates. But geese might be too big for them to take as well.

"No-one has reported anything to British Waterways, but we would encourage people to get in touch if they have seen anything."

Even without large carnivores, there can be dangers under the surface, and British Waterways has issued a reminder to people not to be tempted to enter the waterways over the festive period.

Last updated: 15/12/2011

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