The Cretan croc dubbed Sifis has become something of an elusive attraction since it was first noticed in July at Potamo Dam in Amari, near Rethymno, a tourist hotspot. Almost immediately, the chase was on to catch the croc. On Monday, it was decided to call in  Moroccon activist Olivier Behra (of Discovery channel fame) who has dedicated his life to the study of crocodiles but his first night on Potamo Dam proved fruitless.

Behra, the latest herpetologist in a long line of experts that have been called in by the Organization for Cretan Development (OAK), said that the only way to effectively catch a crocodile is to approach by boat at night. Behra was alone on a boat with a guide last night seeking Sifis and a smaller second crocodile in the area. He used a strong light to see the crocodiles’ eyes that sparkle at night however didn’t even get close in the crocodile’s game of hide-and-seek with people trying to trap it.

Croc expert Olivier Behra has come from Morocco just for Sifis

The expedition ended shortly after midnight without any luck. Behra is continuing his efforts this morning. An official statement released by the Forestry Service of Rethymno said that efforts to catch the crocodile require “complete silence and concentration” and it asked for residents and visitors to the region to show understanding. Movement of vehicles has been diverted from the region.

Video footage below from Antenna TV (Greek language) features Sifis and efforts to catch him –

The plan (Greek and English) –

Behra is the latest in a line of experts that will try to catch the crocodile. Here’s a video that gives a background into his expertise –

Meanwhile, there is a growing number of people who want Sifis to be left alone. Sifis the Crocodile Facebook page is clearly on the fugitive croc’s side with messages of support for the reptile. Messages run along the lines of “Leave Sifis alone!” and “Hang in there, pal!” Souvenir shops in Crete have also found that Sifis and his companion are marketable commodities with blow-up crocodiles all the rage.

And even advertisement on television have featured Sifis in a favorable light –

Sifis plays the Cretan lyre

Hankering for home

So far, none of the traps have managed to catch him…