Miami Firm Tests Gator Sonar

A Miami startup is building a device intended to locate alligators and crocodiles beneath the surface of Florida waterways.

The project, known as Croc Alarm, is being developed by WildlifeOS. The system combines active sonar imaging with artificial intelligence to scan underwater environments. Its purpose is to identify reptiles before they come into close contact with people.

The technology responds to a series of recent incidents in the state. This month, a deadly attack occurred in Winter Garden. Earlier in June, a father and son suffered injuries during a fishing trip in Marion County when an alligator attacked them. The father attempted to pry the animal's jaws open during the struggle.

WildlifeOS founder Rodolfo Saccoman stated that the device will provide users with real-time visual indicators and phone alerts. A green signal indicates no threat has been detected. Yellow shows the system is processing data. Red confirms an alligator or crocodile is nearby.

Saccoman said the company prioritizes accuracy before expanding the product's reach. "We will never put this device out at scale unless we're really confident of the accuracy," he said. The system is currently in the development phase. Prototypes will undergo real-world testing before a potential rollout scheduled for next year.

The device faces technical challenges in distinguishing reptiles from other underwater objects and conditions. It is not yet a replacement for existing safety practices. The primary goal is to warn people who are unaware of a nearby animal, thereby reducing dangerous encounters.