Warnings have been given over the risk of animals on the course at the Rio 2016 golf course ©Rio 2016

At least five trained handlers will be on site during the Olympic golf competition in Rio de Janeiro later this year in order to scare animals, including alligator-like caimans and capybaras, the world's largest rodent, away from the course.

They will be on standby to "transport the animals from one side of the course to another" if necessary, according to Folha de S.Paulo.

There will be no risk to players or members of the public, it is claimed, with the alligators usually known to flee when surrounded by people.

Signposts will be erected to warn spectators of where animals are known to be.

Alligators would be carried off the course by handlers, it was reported, with the action designed to protect the animals rather than those attending golf's return to the Games.

Development of the course in Barra de Tijuca, thought to have cost around $10.6 million (£7.1 million/€9.9 million), had attracted criticism from campaigners in the city, who claimed it would damage the environment.

An International Olympic Committee Executive Board meeting in Rio last year was even interrupted by protesters who branded President Thomas Bach a “nature killer” for the construction of the course.

After failing to cope with greens, bunkers and water during his last round meltdown at The Masters, animals will present a further challenge during Rio 2016 for the likes of US star Jordan Spieth ©Getty Images
After failing to cope with greens, bunkers and water during his last round meltdown at The Masters, animals will present a further challenge during Rio 2016 for the likes of US star Jordan Spieth ©Getty Images

Organisers claim the course its actually helping the environment, restoring a natural habitat of local animal and plant species on a previously degraded area of land.

Other animals seen locally include herons, cavies and sloths.

It is not the first time an Olympic venue has been at risk of an animal presence with six divers equipped with shark-repelling sonar devices escorting triathletes through the harbour during Sydney 2000.

Jellyfish have also been a problem during open water swimming competitions, while animal carcasses, including dead dogs, have been seen in Rio's Guanabara Bay sailing venue.

The first Olympic golf tournament since St Louis 1904 is due to begin with a men's event from August 11 to 14.

A women's competition will follow from August 17 to 20.