Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering where I can purchase "professional grade" croc handling sticks? I know I can make my own out of a broom stick or something like that, which is what I have been using. I am assuming that the sticks used by professional croc handlers are designed a certain way for a reason.

Where can I purchase one from and about how much do they run?

Thanks,

Chris
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Chris Law
U.A.P.P.E.A.L. (Uniting a Proactive Primate and Exotic Animal League)
Herpetoculture Element Representative

Bamboo poles about two inches in diameter and 5-6 feet long are an effective tool which can be used when working around most species. Larger hardware stores will carry bamboo poles.

Truly,

Paul Bodnar

Paul,

Thanks for the information. Some of the ones that I have seen have somewhat of a rubber coating on each end. Is this necessary for saftey of the crocs?

Thanks,

Chris
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Chris Law
U.A.P.P.E.A.L. (Uniting a Proactive Primate and Exotic Animal League)
Herpetoculture Element Representative

Chris,

A soft-wood stick is usually good, such as Pine. Rubber on a stick tends to tear or rot easily (especially from getting wet). You could wrap some rubber for smaller speicmens if you have some handy. Of course, you want to minimize your crocodilians biting the stick ,but a soft wood helps minimize tooth and alveoli (sort of like the "gums" of the animal).
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Israel Dupont
Winter Haven, FL