I've been here a few times when in need of help (Much thanks as always to both chris and Bill). I run a rescue here in WI, and as years have gone along, I have started to slowly get my experience in temporarily housing small crocodillians. I have a few wonderful guys who take on gators and have outlets to get them safe places and we work as a team. Most of my animals are not always in the best of health.
Needless to say as time has gone along, my comfort level and experience level has seriously increased. This spring I plan to visit the gentlemen who I work with and help them a few times (or as often as I can get together with them) for handling experience. I have increased in the size I am COMFORTABLE in handling and I have begun working more with the smaller ones to get a comfort in how they move. I have no issues dealing with them while they are smaller simply because I am at a comfort level. When taking in or assisting shelters in my area I stay at what I have learned to be accident size. You know, small enough that you will still come back with all your parts.
In this journey, I have learned that perhaps in another life I would adore a gator to share my life, I am now way ready now (nor do I see ever) being able to handle one. But I am still working on what I like to call an internship, because I know that as long as I work rescue, I need to have a comfort level with both large constrictors and crocodilians.
THat all being said. 
What is the single most important thing you feel I can learn. What is that one piece of information that you feel is NEEDED to deal with these animals. Please remember that I am never a long term keeper. The longest I maintain these animals is for 2 weeks. I am merely a way station. Often times, they stay here with me simply because the humane societies are terrified of them and the animal needs to stay somewhere 'approved' while custody is determined. Many of my animals (beyond the gators) are often taken from illegal ownerships or drug raids.
The photo attached is of Wally Gator. He was found as a stray up here in WI. Housed temporarily in a fire department, let's just say that the joke around the station was a girl was braver than the fire men, who wouldnt get NEAR him. This is the max of my personal comfort level. Beyond wally size, I get my gator guys (a great thing for a gal to have let me tell ya) to assist.
So basically, the one piece of knowledge in handling, you could not live without.
-----
Cindy
PHFaust
