Citation

Scott R, Scott H. Br. Med. J. BMJ 1994; 309(6970): 1691-1692.

Affiliation

St Raphael's Hospital, Tanga, Tanzania.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7819989

PMCID

PMC2542670

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To investigate why fatal crocodile bites are increasing in a Tanzanian district and the importance of traditional beliefs and superstitions in determining the residents' response to the crocodiles. DESIGN: Information about beliefs was obtained by interview of Korogwe residents. Human and crocodile fatality statistics were obtained from the Korogwe Department of Natural Resources. SETTING: Villages within Korogwe District. SUBJECTS: Population of Korogwe District. RESULTS: Crocodiles have been responsible for 51 deaths in the 52 months from January 1990 to April 1994. Of these, 18 deaths occurred in the first four months of 1994. CONCLUSIONS: Local beliefs and superstitions about crocodiles include those about the taming of animals, with implications concerning the choice of victim and the penalties that may ensue if a crocodile is killed. The recent rise in human fatalities is thought to relate to increasing river pollution reducing the fish supply, together with a change in social mores at the riverside which has increased the crocodiles' displeasure. A reliable pumped water supply would reduce the need to draw water and bathe in the river, and eradication of superstition would empower the villagers in the fight against a common enemy.

Language: en