St. Augustine, FL – The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park announces a rare occurrence in North America: the hatching of four freshwater Johnston’s crocodiles, Crocodylus johnstoni. The new babies mark the first time the species has hatched at the zoo and only the second time babies of this species were welcomed in North America, with first captive hatch credits going to the Baltimore Aquarium. The four baby crocs and their proud parents, Derek and Bindi, will wait to see if more hatchlings emerge from the remaining eggs in the clutch.
“These are Johnston’s crocodiles, what Australians refer to as ‘freshies,’ said Jim Darlington, Reptile Curator at The Alligator Farm. “It’s a first for us, very exciting. And we might have one or two more soon. We try not to count our crocs before they hatch. I don’t want to jinx it, but we’re hopeful.”
The new hatchlings continue a trend of new arrivals that began last summer with the arrival of the first Indian gharial to be hatched outside of India or Nepal. The gharial’s birthday celebration was soon followed by the arrival of six baby Galapagos tortoises, who began hatching the same day as the gharial. Their birth marked the first time this endangered species was bred at the Alligator Farm since the arrival of Galapagos tortoises at the park in 1947.
“The hatching of the freshies is another terrific achievement in terms of animal conservation, which is a vital part of our mission” said John Brueggen, Zoo Director. “I’m proud of our team of reptile keepers who helped make this happen, and I’m looking forward to inviting visitors to the zoo to see the new baby freshies.”
About The Alligator Farm
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is one of Florida’s oldest and most treasured attractions. Since 1893, it has provided visitors with exciting and educational opportunities to interact with a wide range of crocodilians, reptiles, mammals and birds. Located on Anastasia Island in St. Augustine, The Alligator Farm features natural exhibits, wildlife shows and educational demonstrations. It is the only place in the world where visitors can see every species of alligator, crocodile, caiman and gharial. In 1992, The Alligator Farm was designated a U.S. Historic District. For more information, visit www.alligatorfarm.com.