Crocodile Spotted In Schuylkill River, Reportedly Won't Affect Regatta

Reports of a crocodile spotted in the Schuylkill River recently won't affect this weekend's Head of the Schuylkil Regatta.

The Regatta, one of the largest on the Eastern seaboard, will continue on despite sighting of the caiman, according to Philly Magazine.

Organizers told the magazine that "the cold weather this week will chase him/her to warmer climate" and that the caiman was "more scared of us than we are of him."

The caiman that has been recently spotted is estimated to be around two and a half feet long.

There have been intermittent sightings of gators and crocodiles in the Schuylkill River over the years, and in many cases, it turns out that a pet has simply outgrown its cage and been abandoned into the wild by its keeper.

While it is legal to keep gators and crocodiles as pets in Pennsylvania, it is, of course, illegal to release any non-native wildlife.

Caimans have become something of an urban legend to the numerous rowing clubs and running groups that use the Schuylkill River and the paths along its banks. A satirical Facebook page, "Schuylkill Gator Awareness," has even been launched to "raise awareness" of the creatures.

More than 8,500 competitors and 1,930 boats are expected at the massive Regatta this weekend, organizers said.

Image courtesy Commons user King of Hearts.