In the lush landscapes of Siquirres, Limón Province, Costa Rica, an unusual story of companionship unfolded between a man and a crocodile. Gilberto “Chito” Shedden, a local fisherman, discovered the severely injured reptile on the banks of the Reventazón River in 1989. The crocodile, later named Pocho, weighed a mere 70 kg (150 lb) and bore the scars of a bullet wound through the left eye, inflicted by a local cattle farmer whose herd had been threatened.
Shedden, moved by the creature’s plight, embarked on a remarkable journey of healing and friendship. For six months, he provided Pocho with 30 kg (66 lb) of chicken and fish weekly, “the crocodile needed my love to regain the will to live,” Chito remarked. He even slept alongside Pocho, coaxing the croc to eat by simulating chewing motions and offering kisses and hugs, a nurturing approach that proved pivotal in Pocho’s recovery.
Once Pocho’s health improved, Shedden’s efforts to reintroduce him to the wild were met with an unexpected refusal. Pocho had found a home alongside Chito, his wife, and his daughter. Shedden trained Pocho to respond to his name and for over 20 years, they swam together in the river outside Chito’s home, sharing a bond that blurred the lines between man and beast.
Their connection captivated onlookers as Chito and Pocho began performing for audiences on Sunday afternoons at Finca Las Tilapias. The performances, a testament to their unique relationship, drew tourists worldwide, leaving many to marvel at the spectacle. A documentary, “Dragons Feast,” captured their story, showcasing Pocho’s remarkable behaviors, such as rushing towards Chito with an open mouth only to gently receive a kiss instead.
Pocho’s life came to a tranquil end in the water outside Shedden’s home on October 12, 2011. His passing garnered a public funeral, attended by friends and admirers. In a heartfelt moment, Shedden sang to Pocho, cradling the crocodile’s ‘hand’. Today, Pocho’s taxidermied remains are displayed in the Siquirres town museum—a place where Chito visits often to remember his beloved companion.