THE NAME Crocodylus Rhombifer does not sound particularly friendly. But, as one should never judge a book by its cover -- or in this case, by its skin and the length of its snout -- we approach the habitat of the creature with optimistic caution.
On our recent visit, we are told by representatives of the South Coast Safari that there is nothing to fear. The Safari's crocs are among the friendliest in the world we hear -- much friendlier than, say, the saltwater crocs of Australia or the Nile crocs in Africa. Rhombifer is American.
The crocodile feeds on the abundant wildlife to be found along the six mile stretch of the Black River, St. Elizabeth, which it inhabits. The main diet is fish. Crabs, frogs, turtles are also abundant in the waters and serve as appetizers.
The Black River ecological zone is rich in wildlife. Visitors are advised to leave the area in the same pristine condition in which they find it, for the health of the many species that make the water and surrounding wetlands their home.
Now that you have been duly cautioned, enjoy the Rhombifer's domain -- a boat tour. The Black River Safari Tour package consists of a one to a one-and-a-half hour boat tour by motor launch up Jamaica's largest navigable river and through what is the island's largest wetland area, the Black River lower morass. More than 100 species of birds have been recorded in the Black River morass and many can be seen along the way, if you have not imbibed too much rum with brunch.
Sightings of Rhombifer and American cousins are very frequent. The wetland vegetation is also of special interest with three species of mangrove, thatch palms, Royal Palms and freshwater swamp forest in abundance.
The tour takes you six miles up river and back, during which a running commentary is given by the Safari's captain/tour guide on both the ecology and a little history of the area.
Boats leave the dock at 9:00 a.m. and return at 11:00 a.m., or at 2:00 p.m. returning at 3:30 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling South Coast Safaris Ltd. or through tour representatives.
Craft
Local craft vendors from Black River and surrounding communities trade their wares in the Safari's office/headquarters. You may take home carved birds, crocs and other creatures as memorabilia. There are also t-shirts.
How to get there
If you are staying at a hotel in Montego Bay or Negril, round trip transportation is provided from your hotel to the South Coast and back. Total time spent on this day trip is approximately eight hours, including travel time from Negril or Montego Bay.
Otherwise, if you're coming from the east, approach the Black River Safari from the eastern side of the Black River Bridge.
If you are coming from Negril, Montego Bay, Mandeville or Ocho Rios, drive through the town of Black River, cross over the bridge and the Safari will be the first gate on your left.
Visit them online at www.southcoast-safari.com
