As human populations grow and transform undeveloped
terrestrial and aquatic habitats, human–wildlife
conflict inevitably increases. This is particularly problematic
for large predators and the humans who live alongside them.
Relatively little research has been conducted on alleviating
adverse human encounters with one of the most significant
predator species in Africa, the Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus.
This short communication raises questions about
some of the general statements made to explain the incidence
of attacks by crocodiles. Some of the limitations of
the data on such attacks are considered, with recommendations
on what kinds of data are required. Data collection and
analysis, and how they can inform more effective mitigation
efforts, are discussed.