Each April, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park hosts a Crocodilian Biology and Management Course, known as Croc School. This year, they celebrated the graduation of their 23rd class on April 18. The course teaches students how to work with these reptiles and how to help endangered crocodilians thrive. Josie Taylor, curator of education; Lauren Cashman, collections manager; and Kent Vliet, scientific advisor, spoke about the details of Croc School.
The course was developed by the Crocodilian Advisory Group, after noticing the increasing need to strengthen the captive management and conservation of endangered crocodilians in zoos and aquariums. Having a strong foundation of crocodilian biology, behavior, husbandry and management are essential to maintain healthy populations.
Croc School is an intensive nine-day course taught by crocodilian experts from the Alligator Farm and professionals from colleges, universities and zoos. It is designed to provide keepers, educators, students and wildlife professionals with knowledge and practical skills to aid in care and long-term conservation. Throughout the course, students learn about captive management techniques, husbandry, breeding and special requirements for crocodilians in zoos and aquariums. The last day of the course includes hands-on training that teaches students how to safely capture the reptiles for health exams and transportation.
There are 20 highly coveted spots in the course. Priority admission is given to applicants from AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) facilities, along with other accredited institutions. Many students are also professionals from around the world. While these students are prioritized, anyone with a serious interest in crocodilians and herpetology can apply.
Taylor, Cashman and Vliet hope that students ultimately leave the course with a greater appreciation for crocodilians, gain confidence in their ability to contribute to conservation and become advocates for these misunderstood reptiles. Crocodilians are much more than dangerous predators, they are vital to our ecosystems.
“Protecting crocodilians often means protecting entire habitats that countless other species, and people, depend on,” they said.
Croc School is an exciting opportunity to learn from experts and participate in crocodilian conservation, research and care.
“Whether you’re considering a career in wildlife conservation or simply want to deepen your understanding of crocodilians, Croc School offers an unforgettable learning experience that combines science, conservation and passion,” they said.
To learn more or apply, go to www.alligatorfarm.com/events-programs/crocodilian-biology-and-management.
