Key Largo Speared Crocodile Recovering at Zoo Miami

An approximately 8-foot female American crocodile was found Oct. 18 near mile marker 101 in Key Largo with a speargun spear lodged in the back of her skull and a bullet lodged between her eyes; further x‑rays showed she had also been shot in the body. FWC officers and Zoo Miami wildlife professionals captured and transported the animal to Zoo Miami, where head veterinarian Dr. Gwen Myers removed the spear and provided fluids, antibiotics, pain medication and ongoing wound care. Nicknamed “Britney Spears” by the FWC, the crocodile is resting away from the public and is walking and using a shallow pool while recovering, though staff warn she is not yet out of the woods. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has launched a criminal investigation, noting American crocodiles are federally threatened, and is asking the public for photos, video or tips to the Wildlife Alert Hotline; tips may be anonymous and could qualify for a reward. Zoo officials say their goal is to return the crocodile to the wild once she has made sufficient progress in recovery.