This is the gruesome moment a crocodile leaves a man injured with a blood-soaked hand.

In the video, the man from India is seen drawing closer to the dangerous reptile and then attempting to pat its head. 

The crocodile, originally from a rural part of Bangladesh, suddenly bites at the man's outstretched arm as the crowd watch in horror, reports the Daily Mail.

It then immediately hides in the bushes of the marshy water fearing a counter-attack from the group of the people trying to catch it.  

The man, who was left with blood pouring from his hand, managed to escape further injuries.

He was rushed to hospital for treatment. 

Following the attack, the crowd can be heard shouting and trying to get behind the reptile in order to catch hold of it.

The video has since gone viral and drawn furious criticism and anger from those on social media.

One user said: 'Well done croc! He deserves that. The man should have left the animal alone.'

Another user said: 'This man should be booked by the Indian authorities for disturbing a wildlife. Please arrest him.'

It is not yet known if the police have taken action against the man in the video but in the past the authorities have come down strictly on those who try to poach or manhandle wildlife in the area.