Dear Croc Crusaders,

Just two nights ago we were conducting a routine crocodile capture, tag, and release for our ongoing American crocodile, Crocodylus acutus, population survey. The croc we captured had been shot in the head and hind leg, but alive. We were able to remove the bullet from the head but not sure if any remain in the leg. There are exit wounds so we know that some went through and through. This large 10 foot 8 inch, male, crocodile is now in a small holding facility. We cleaned all the woulds and treated with antibiotics as best we could. This croc came to us so quickly out of the water for bait that we had to chase it off to set the snare. This indicates it was being fed by humans and hence a very dangerous and large apex predator not afraid of humans. Additionally, it is now obviously an easy target for poachers. This croc will need care for at least a month in the small habitat but can not, nor should not, be re-released into the wild. It will be killed for sure. Currently we do not have any room at out natural habitat sanctuary. We are in need of funding to build it a suitable enclosure.

Photos Click Here

Cherie & Vince


Additionally, we have a 9 foot male American crocodile in recovery. It is toothless from malnutrition and possibly a metabolic disease. It is recovering quickly in our care, but again we do not have a suitable habitat for it once it is fully recovered. We would like to eventually re-release this croc however, due to it lacking teeth we need to be sure it can feed on its own. In the event we do re-release it some day the habitat would then be available for any other croc in need.

With funding of $10,000USD we will build two 75' x 80' habitats for these crocs. Both habitats would also be able to house two large rescued females along with these males. And the need here is great. PLEASE consider granting ACES some funding to humanely care for these crocs. We are verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and visitors are limited and only welcome for educational purposes. No donation is too small!

Also, I hope you received my email about ACES being filmed by UK's Wild Productions for Discovery Channel's Animal Planet series "Wildlife SOS." It should air this Sept.

Thank you for your continued support, Cherie

Research Biologist & Wildlife Behaviorist
ACES/American Crocodile Education Sanctuary
General Delivery, San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye, Belize, Central America
americancrocodilesanctuary.org
[email protected]
011.501.631.6366