Tourist’s selfie with ‘statue’ crocodile turns into nightmare in Philippine wildlife park

A tourist’s attempt to take a selfie inside a crocodile enclosure in the Philippines went horribly wrong after he mistook the 15-foot reptile for a statue—and was brutally attacked.

On April 28, a 29-year-old tourist visiting the Kabug Island Mangrove and Wetlands Park in Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines, climbed into a crocodile enclosure believing the massive reptile inside was just a life-sized model. The crocodile, named Lalay, quickly proved otherwise—lunging at the man and attacking him in a terrifying moment recorded by another visitor.

Police say the man, who has not been publicly identified, saw the crocodile resting in the water and thought it was a harmless display.

“He thought it was just a plastic fixture,” explained Police Staff Sergeant Joel Sajolga of the Siay Municipal Police.

But when he climbed the fence to take selfies, the real-life predator reacted swiftly—and violently.

In footage shared online, the tourist can be seen smiling and holding up his phone as he walks toward the crocodile. Within seconds, Lalay lunges, grabbing the man’s arm with her powerful jaws. She then bites his thigh and performs a “death roll”—a twisting motion crocodiles use to rip apart their prey.

According to animal experts at the University of Tennessee, crocodiles can’t chew. Instead, they use the death roll to tear meat into bite-sized pieces. It’s one of their most dangerous and deadly moves.

Trapped for 30 minutes, saved by a brave handler

Witnesses described a terrifying scene. The man screamed in pain while the crocodile held on and thrashed violently. He remained trapped in the enclosure for 30 minutes as Lalay refused to let go.

Eventually, the park’s crocodile handler risked his life by jumping into the water. He reportedly used a piece of concrete to strike the crocodile, forcing her to release the man.

Paramedics arrived shortly after and rushed the tourist to Dr. George T. Hofer Memorial Hospital. Reports say he received over 50 stitches for deep wounds on his arm and leg. He’s expected to recover, though his injuries were serious.

While some people expressed shock at the man’s near-death experience, many online commenters had little sympathy. Instead, they were upset that the crocodile was harmed because of the tourist’s reckless actions.

“Poor Lalay! Imagine minding your business and getting a cement block smashed on your head,” one user wrote.

Another added, “Calling this an attack is like saying someone who stepped onto railroad tracks was attacked by the train.”

Even the witness who filmed the attack had doubts about the man’s decision: “I don’t know why he would do such a stupid thing,” said Cañete Jie.

This bizarre and terrifying incident has raised important questions about safety in animal parks—and basic common sense when interacting with wild animals. Experts and authorities are urging visitors to follow safety signs and never enter animal enclosures.

“This kind of behavior is very dangerous,” Sgt. Sajolga emphasized. “He put his life and others at risk. He’s lucky to be alive.”

Let this be a wake-up call. Respect nature’s boundaries. No photo is worth your life—or an animal’s well-being.

Let us know your thoughts—would you ever risk a selfie for social media likes? Share your comments below!