Experiential and educational program – “Discover the perfect creation of evolution”… or photoshoot with crocodiles
At the Protivín Crocodile Zoo, we introduced an educational and experiential program several years ago – “Discover the perfect creation of evolution – Meet the crocodile”.
Participants in this program are introduced to the structure of the crocodile body through a direct demonstration of the complete skeleton of a spectacled caiman, including the abdominal ribs. The lecturer will explain the function of the blood circulation and other organs in a specimen of an alligator heart. At the end of the program, the visitor can examine with his own hands the smooth skin on the abdominal shield of a crocodile, which is used in the leather industry. On the other hand, the dorsal shield, strengthened by osteoderms, is very rough to the touch.
On this occasion, the participant of the program can have their photo taken with a crocodile. This demonstration is very popular with children in particular, as holding a baby crocodile in your own hands is an experience of a lifetime, which also helps to strengthen the feeling of belonging to living nature.
For this demonstration and for the photography, only young animals born in our zoo, which are accustomed to handling from the first days of life, are used. For small crocodiles, the touch of warm human hands is pleasant, as the temperature of 36°C is comfortable for them when sunbathing and, surprisingly for some visitors, they do not resist handling.
The program runs continuously every day, you can purchase it at the same time as your zoo tickets, and the photography takes place at the end of the guide’s explanation with his assistance.
