Giant Philippine Crocodile Faces An Uncertain Fate (PHOTOS)

What to do with Lolong, the crocodile estimated to be 20-21 feet long that was recently captured in the Philippines? The question is weighing on the mind of local officials and environmentalists alike.

The Associated Press reports that People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) suggests the croc should be set free. They claim that "if it remains in captivity it is likely to develop abnormal behavior and endanger its caretakers and visitors to a proposed park."

But others are saying not so fast. Local officials in the Philippines warn that the crocodile could pose a threat to the 1,300 residents of the fishing village near where Lolong was caught. The crocodile, which weights 2,370 pounds (1,075 kilograms), is suspected of killing a local fisherman and a water buffalo in the past two months, and a child two years ago. But officials believe an even larger crocodile, which may be responsible for the deaths, is still on the loose.

With Lolong in captivity, locals plan on making the crocodile the star of a new ecotourism destination. Until a permanent enclosure is built, the Associated Press reports that Lolong is living "in a 8,610-square foot (800-square meter) pen with 4-foot (1.2-meter) -high concrete walls topped by welded wire."

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