Thrill-seeking photographer risks life and limb as he swims alongside a ten-foot-long crocodile in Cancun
Rodrigo Friscione pictured the 200lb predator in clear water, offsetting its instinct to attack him by ambush
A THRILL-SEEKING photographer risks life and limb as he swims alongside a 10ft-long American crocodile.
Stunning pictures show Mexican underwater snapper Rodrigo Friscione getting up close and personal with the 200lb predator.
Other shots show the curious croc check itself out in the camera lens and poke its head above water.
Rodrigo, who runs a dive shop in Cancun, took the spectacular images in Chinchorro Banks, near Belize.
"What you see in these photos is a peaceful interaction with crocs," he said.
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"This is a hard thing to do because crocs usually live in murky, swampy areas where water is far from clear - thus giving them a hunting advantage.
"In Chinchorro, crocs venture out into clean Caribbean water which is perfect for controlled safe encounters.
"When the water is so clear their predatory instinct is held back because they lose the element of surprise."
Rodrigo loves to interact with huge predators and try to change their perception in the public eye.
"Crocs or any other big predators are not aggressive animals," he said. "They need lots of support and attention to eradicate their bad reputation and to apply measures that will ensure their conservation.
"Interacting with big animals is my favourite thing. I feel like it really connects you to nature.
"Big animals are disappearing at an alarming rate work wide and having the opportunity to have one face to face is unique.
"Most people panic during the first few seconds but after the initial shock, once they understand these are not bloodthirsty killers they truly appreciate that they are gorgeous animals with unique characters to each individual."
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