What happened on Ramree Island during World War II?

During World War II, a battle took place on Ramree Island where Japanese soldiers retreated into mangrove swamps inhabited by saltwater crocodiles.

Are the stories of hundreds of soldiers dying from crocodile attacks on Ramree Island true?

While crocodile attacks may have occurred, historians and experts believe the widely cited numbers of hundreds of soldiers killed by crocodiles are likely exaggerated and unverified.

What is the status of saltwater crocodiles on Ramree Island?

Saltwater crocodiles, which inhabit coastal mangrove ecosystems like those around Ramree Island, still exist in parts of Myanmar, though their populations have been greatly reduced.

Home / War and Conflict / Ramree Island: Myth vs. Crocodile Mayhem

Ramree Island: Myth vs. Crocodile Mayhem

18 Feb

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Summary

WWII battle on Ramree Island involved Japanese soldiers and mangrove swamps.
Dramatic tales claim hundreds died from crocodile attacks, but numbers are disputed.
Historians believe crocodile attacks occurred but exaggerated death tolls.

Ramree Island: Myth vs. Crocodile Mayhem

Ramree Island, off Myanmar's coast, was the site of a significant World War II battle in early 1945. Allied forces captured the island's airfield, prompting Japanese soldiers to retreat into the surrounding mangrove swamps.

These swamps were known habitats for large saltwater crocodiles. A popular account suggests that Japanese soldiers spent a night in these swamps, with subsequent screams and disturbances indicating numerous crocodile attacks.