Meet the Croc With a Teeny‑Tiny Vehicle V.I.P.
Why the Pattaya‑Parade Piggyback
Around six years ago, a massive four‑metre Indonesian crocodile started pulling off a DIY stunt that would earn it a nickname: “The Tyre‑Necked Croc”. Picture a 13‑foot reptile heftily striding through the waters of Palu, a greasy motorcycle tyre lodged snugly around its neck. The tyrolated beast shocked locals and left many concerned that the tyre could eventually choke it as it grew.
The Dog‑And‑Cat— a “Wildlife Woes” Challenge
The animal‑loving community gave it a whirl. An Aussie croc wrangler, who usually deals with national park “slippages”, tried to rescue its tyre twin but left empty‑handed. The croc remained as elusive as a cat in a laser‑pointer show.
Tili’s Flair & Feral Tactics
Enter Tili, 35, a resident with a single name and a self‑taught wildlife skill set. When the town’s residents stayed put out of fear, Tili rolled up his sleeves and mounted a humble but dramatic plan.
- A rope tied to a sturdy log— the classic snare.
- Live chickens and ducks: yep, not a “turkey” B set, but my dear, blinking victims.
- Three-week patrols through the riverbank.
Despite two escape hustles, the croc fell into Tili’s trap on the third run.
“I had to face it myself!”
“I caught it by myself. I asked for help, but people thought I was lazy or just a joker.” Tili chuckled, striking a proud pose beside the torn tire. With a trusty saw in hand, he sliced – drama and a scream – and freed the reptile from its twisted necklace.
Reward? Pyrrhic or Principle?
In 2020, local authorities had plucked a nondescript reward, but rather than chase the money, Tili’s heart did what the monetary coin couldn’t do— it listened to the reptiles. “I can’t stand to see animals in trouble. Even snakes and all,” he said, firm as a security guard at a liquidity event.
Back to the Bay— The Re‑Release Event
On Monday evening, the rescued croc – formerly known in legends as “buaya kalung ban” (croc with a tyre necklace) – was majestically re‑introduced to the river, where it’s sure to glide away with a newfound freedom.
That’s the tale of how one local hero turned a greasy panic into a triumphant celebration!
