Alligator’s Released In New Lake in Dangerous Moving Day

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: March 30, 2021 1:25 pm

An American alligator is released from its travel crate in to the lagoon at the Australian Reptile Park

Photo Credit: Australian Reptile Park

Australian Reptile Park keepers have taken on the dangerous task of releasing ten American alligators in to their enclosure this morning after they arrived from Australia Zoo. It was all hands on deck to undertake the physical task of moving the alligators in to their new home.

These alligators joined the 45 resident alligators which already live in the park’s alligator lagoon. Each box that was opened sets hearts racing as the keepers waited to see if the alligators raced to the water or came back towards the keepers.

An American alligator settles in to its new habitat at the Australian Reptile Park

Photo Credit: Australian Reptile Park

Australian Reptile Park Director, Tim Faulkner said “You can never have too many alligators! It’s been a crazy morning, with a few close calls there. The ground is still wet and still slippery from recent rainy weather which added an extra element of danger. We all were kept on edge all morning but are happy to report all of the gators are safe in their new home.”

“We didn’t know what sort of alligator was going to come out of each box as we opened them. Was this one going to be nice? Or was it going to come charging out with us being the first thing it sees? We were kept on our toes, that’s for sure!”

— AD —

Commenting on the process, Head of Reptiles Daniel Rumsey added, “One slight step out of place can cost you, so we are very careful to follow a well-thought-out plan and ensure the safety of all staff in such a mammoth task. We’re so glad to see it was a success and all of the gators have begun to settle in and are swimming around happily.”

Over the next few days the keepers will keep a close eye on them to ensure the alligators settle in well. Luckily no incidents occurred during the move and all appears to be going well.

An American alligator is released from its travel crate in to the lagoon at the Australian Reptile Park

Photo Credit: Australian Reptile Park

The Australian Reptile Park has maintained their position of having Australia’s largest population of American alligators with 55 now calling the park home. Visitors will be able to see them as they are fed during the upcoming school holidays.

The new arrival’s today have been named after famous rappers. Some of the new residents include the Notorious B.I.G, Flavor Flav and Tupac.

An American alligator is released from its travel crate in to the lagoon at the Australian Reptile Park

Photo Credit: Australian Reptile Park

Learn more about American Alligators here – American Alligator Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about the Australian Reptile Park on their website – Australian Reptile Park