Want to help a critically endangered crocodile? Then this event in Orlando is for you
Love crocodiles? No need to answer that question.
Let’s rephrase: If you at least find them intriguing, we have an event in Florida for you.
Winter CrocFest 2021, celebrating all things related to crocs (except the shoes), will be held at Gatorland theme park in Orlando on Dec 11. It’s the first time the theme park will host this fundraiser first held in 2010 in Bushnell, Florida.
All the money raised at this year’s party will go toward the release and tracking of a group of Orinocos from several U.S. zoos to their native Venezuela.
These reptiles are critically endangered, with only about 1,500 of them left in the wild. These freshwater animals are known for their long, narrow snouts and often pale color.
The park says that Orinocos’ hides, eggs, meat and even teeth (which are thought to have healing powers) have long been sought by hunters.
You’ll get the chance to see two hatchlings from Gatorland that were chosen for the release program. These little guys aren’t intimidating — yet. But a mature adult male can grow up to about 15 feet long.
Tickets: Eventbrite; www.CrocFest.org.
This story was originally published November 15, 2021 at 7:50 PM.
