6-Foot Crocodile Surprises Beachgoers In Hollywood, Florida

HOLLYWOOD, FL — Beachgoers in Hollywood, Florida were surprised Monday to find a six-foot crocodile sunning himself. The scaly visitor couldn't have picked a busier week to visit South Florida with Thanksgiving just days away. State wildlife officials were called to move the crocodile to a more appropriate location as beachgoers could be seen craning for a better look.

"Beach Safety is keeping swimmers and beachgoers a safe distance away and @MyFWC has been contacted," Hollywood police said during the encounter.

The crocodile could be seen near the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort around lunchtime on Monday.

"Marine Patrol reported seeing the croc earlier around the Dania Beach Pier area," Hollywood police added.

Miranda Grossman of the Hollywood Police Department told Patch that she couldn't remember another call involving a crocodile on the beach.

"I can’t imagine it would be very often," she said.

Even Hollywood police, who are experienced at dealing with unusual calls, were a bit taken aback.

"It’s the last thing you expect on a Monday morning to have a crocodile on your beach," Grossman explained. "Luckily, no one’s been injured."

Officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission wrangled the crocodile and Monday afternoon.

Watch: Crocodile Wanders Onto Florida Beach

Photo courtesy Hollywood Police Department