Crocs Alive!

Enter the Croc Pond

at Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo

One of Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo's (AWSFZ) specialties is crocodilians (please see Expedition: Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo page for a brief introduction). The zoo cares for one of the most diverse collections of crocodiles in the country. It is amazing to work with such a wide range of species in such close proximity. From the caiman, the smallest crocodile species in the world, to the giant saltwater and Nile crocs, the two largest reptile species in the world, AWSFZ has them all. Check out some of the beauties:

A cuban crocodile (Crocodylus rhombifer)

Sam, the zoo's 13-foot American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

A gator coming out of the Croc Pond to check us out

A west African Nile croc basking in the sun

A beautiful east African Nile croc (blond in the center)

Every Sunday during the summer, Jarrod and the AWSFZ team feed the crocs by hand in a show for the public.  The weekly "Croc Feeding" is a huge attraction.  Check out what I mean:

Jarrod taking a break to educate the public about this gorgeous east African Nile crocodile

Despite having an injured left hand, Jarrod continues the show with a smile on his face. What a trooper!

Jarrod and Sam, the alpha male gator. Look at those jaws!

Jarrod and one of the medium-sized gators. Check out the size of that reptile!

Even with his left hand out of commission, Jarrod still gives the crowd an amazing show

Jarrod and Bart are the only people allowed in the Croc Pond during feeding sessions. With over 20 years of experience working together, Bart and Jarrod depend on each other. Bart is Jarrod's only life-line and if things get a bit toothy, Bart is there to back Jarrod up.

A bunch of crocs cornering Jarrod and Bart

Jarrod trying to get chicken out as fast as he can

 Of course, when you're working with giant, toothy reptiles, there are always close calls.

A hungry east African Nile croc

A Nile croc that's more interested in Jarrod than in chicken. Check out those teeth!

Another close shave

After a successful show, Jarrod and Bart gave me unprecedented access to the giant crocs in the Croc Pond.  Having worked with giant crocs before, I was familiar with the safety precautions required. But I was still sweating bullets!

Contemplating my next move in the Croc Pond.

Me and a 10-foot Nile crocodile, the second largest reptile species in the world!