Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Well,

Business has brought me to North Carolina... specifically Raleigh (RTP for those familiar with the area).

I'm wondering what there is to see crocodilian related while I'm here (that might be open late at night, since usually I'm working till about 7:30 - though I could possibly escape around 6ish one one night)

NEwho, I'll also be in Ft. Lauderdale for the weekend, I know of one place there, can't remember the name of the place, but what suggestions are there?

Thanks in advance...

Mr. F

Welcome to NC. I know there are a couple of pet shops that have caiman here in Raleigh. I will try to find out if any of the museums have croc displays. If so I will let you know.

E-mail me if you if you need the names of reptile shops or vets in the area.

DRZRIDER

As far as Ft. Lauderdale goes, you can visit Native Village, owned by my friend Skeet, a Seminole. Skeet has Alligators, caimans, and a Siamese croc, along with several snakes, many turtles, birds, panthers racoons, deer. A highlight of the park's shows is feeding time for Lunge, a 12 foot gator. There's an alligator handling show, venomous snake show, and a Seminole cultural area. Believe it or not, there are no slot machines!!

If you have more time, you can also take Alligator Ally (Now I-75) West to the Seminole Nation, where BILLIE SWAMP SAFARI is located. Follow the signs. It's a bit of a drive, since you have to drive well into the Everglades, but if you're a hardcore croc aficianado it is worth it. Billie (former Seminole Chief) has what is probably the large American Alligator in captivity anywhere, whose name is Superman. The last time I saw him two years ago he was 15-1/2 feet in length, a measurement I actually believe. If you check the Croc Forum picture posting page here, you can see a pic I took of him. I was allowed into the pen to photograph him with a keeper. Billie has lots of other animals there as well, inlcuding Caimans, Nile and American crocs, and native wildlife. There are enjoyable buggy and airboat tours as well.

Directions to NATIVE VILLAGE: Take the Sterling road exit on I-95 (South of the Ft. Lauderdale airport. Go West to 441, then turn left. You'll see the big sign on the left side of the road. Admission is about $7.

In West Palm Beach, about a 40-minute drive North, you can visit Palm Beach Zoo. The zoo received 30 million dollars recently, and they are having fun spending it. This formerly dinky little zoo is transforming itself into something impressive. They have two alligators and five impressive Broad-snouted caimans. Follow the signs on I-95. Take the Southern Blvd. exit East, and follow the little signs on the traffic poles.

Thank you both,

I only had a brief moment for the petstore (a petstore - hope it was the one) and had some fun talking to the guys there. unfortunately for Fla. I was going on the Sunday as the 4AM party really took a lot out of me, and then it rained. I'll be back in Sept though, and definitely popping my head in a few of those places. Thanks again.

Mr. F