Golfers competing at this year's Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro will have to contend with more than the usual hazards of bunkers, heavy rough and water.

Organizers have confirmed that signs around the course will warn competitors to be wary of animals such as alligator-like caimans and capybaras - the world's largest rodent.

According to the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper, a team of at least five trained animal handlers will be on standby to "transport the animals from one side of the course to another" if necessary.

Built specifically for this year's games, the Olympic golf course has drawn criticism from some environmentalists due to its location next to a national park.

But Rio 2016 organizers say the venue was built on a degraded piece of land, restoring the natural habitant of local animal and plant species.

Golf is making its first appearance at the Olympics since the 1904 games in St Louis. The men's tournament will be played from August 11 to 14 and the women's competition from August 17 to 20.

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