They say you should never smile at a crocodile, but someone didn’t tell this Costa Rican man. His best friend is a massive croc called Pocho.

He cuddles Pocho, swims with Pocho, and wrestles with Pocho. The sharp-toothed reptile seems to relish the attention, and shows no signs of turning against his human body.

The man’s lack of fear is incredible, and probably a little mad. We’re talking about an animal that could finish him in one bite after all.

I also wonder how such star-crossed friends become so close. While they get along famously now, that getting-to-know-you period must be a little nerve-wracking!