Crocodile Sighting at University of Miami Sparks Safety Advisory
The University of Miami has issued a safety alert following a crocodile sighting in Lake Osceola, the man-made lake at the heart of its Coral Gables campus. The advisory urges students and visitors to avoid approaching the water’s edge and to refrain from feeding or interacting with wildlife.
UM Warns Students to Avoid Lake Osceola After Wildlife Alert
This is the first reported crocodile sighting in recent memory at Lake Osceola. The lake is commonly surrounded by students using nearby footpaths and green spaces between classes. The unexpected presence of a crocodile has prompted increased caution as the semester comes to a close.
Crocodiles Not Common, But Not Impossible in South Florida
Though artificial, Lake Osceola connects to Biscayne Bay through several canals, allowing a variety of animals to enter the lake’s ecosystem. Typical wildlife includes manatees, turtles, ducks, snakes, and ibis—the university’s mascot. However, crocodiles and alligators, while not regular inhabitants, are occasionally spotted in these waterways, especially during warmer months.
University officials emphasized that crocodiles may appear passive while resting or swimming, but should never be approached. American crocodiles are a federally protected species. While generally not aggressive, they may react unpredictably when provoked or fed.
Safety Measures in Place Following Historic Tragedy
The university reminded the campus community of its zero-tolerance policy for swimming in Lake Osceola, a rule implemented after the 2001 drowning of student Chad Meredith. Meredith drowned following a fraternity drinking event that ended in an early morning swim. His death led the university to reinforce safety policies, including the installation of “No Swimming” signs.
UM is now working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to monitor the lake. Any sightings of the crocodile or unsafe wildlife behavior should be reported immediately to campus security at 305-284-6666 or the FWC at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
More…
- https://www.discourse.net/2025/05/um-police-want-you-to-know-about-the-crocodile-in-the-lake/
- https://www.newsbreak.com/news/3989699194423-crocodile-spotted-in-lake-osceola-triggers-safety-alert-at-university-of-miami
- https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/crocodile-spotted-in-university-of-miamis-lake-osceola-23014882
