Abstract

The exotic pet market continues to grow, and it has been confirmed that approximately 43.2% of the nonnative reptiles being imported into the country are internationally endangered species. Under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Convention, species listed in Appendix I cannot be kept by individuals except for exhibition or research purposes. Furthermore, under South Korea’s Wildlife Protection Act, crocodilians are subject to breeding permits and require specialized facilities, effectively prohibiting private ownership since 2022. In August 2024, the carcass of a CITES Appendix I-listed Saltwater crocodile was found on a two-lane road in Sancheong, Gyeongsangnam-do. The specimen measured 70.40 cm in total length and is presumed to be a roadkill. It is suspected to have been illegally bred or kept, though its exact origin remains unconfirmed. Environmental DNA analysis conducted in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do to identify additional habitats confirmed no further occurrences. An investigation into the domestic introduction of saltwater crocodiles revealed that a total of 50 individuals were imported from three countries since 1997. Saltwater crocodiles are a species capable of inflicting fatal harm to humans and are judged to have a highly negative impact if introduced into the domestic ecosystem. Therefore, continuous monitoring and ongoing citizen science efforts are deemed necessary.