In an exciting encounter, wildlife photographer Kym Clark has captured on video the largest American crocodile ever reported in Everglades National Park, Florida. Dubbed “Croczilla” for its impressive length of 14 feet, this iconic reptile has become a scaly celebrity, captivating the attention of both locals and wildlife enthusiasts.

The footage shows “Croczilla” basking in the sun next to a pond, with its enormous mouth wide open, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth. Clark, who had encountered the crocodile once before, couldn't contain her excitement and exclaimed, "What a lucky day!" while ensuring her camera captured every detail of this magnificent creature. Describing it as a love-at-first-sight moment, Clark couldn't help but be captivated by the sheer size and majesty of "Croczilla."

This encounter marks Clark's second sighting of the crocodile in a year. In her Instagram post, she expressed her adoration for the reptile, stating, "Croczilla was quite possibly just as happy to see me as I was to see him!" She emphasized that the open mouth is not a sign of aggression but rather a way for the crocodile to regulate its body temperature or simply yawn.

The American crocodile population in Florida is estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,500, according to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. These oversized reptiles are currently classified as a “threatened” species by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. However, their numbers have shown significant recovery since being listed as endangered in 1975, with as many as 2,000 adult crocodiles now found in the state.

The conservation success story of the American crocodile is evident in Everglades National Park, where “Croczilla” resides. The massive reptile's presence serves as a testament to the efforts made in preserving the natural habitats of these creatures. The FWC emphasizes that the American crocodile is a shy and reclusive species, typically found in brackish or saltwater areas such as ponds, coves, and creeks in mangrove swamps.

As the largest known American crocodile in the Everglades, “Croczilla” has become a symbol of the wildlife diversity and conservation efforts in Florida. Its impressive size and appearance have captured the imagination of both locals and tourists, showcasing the natural wonders that can be found in this unique ecosystem. With the protection of these threatened species, future generations will continue to witness the magnificence of “Croczilla” and its counterparts in the wild.