Out & About Summer 2018

elevated walkways to afford visitors the very best views – there were more precious and endangered species including Cuban crocodiles, the magnificent three metres of prime Siamese croc that answers to the name Hugo – they really do respond to their names – and the Tomistoma, which at 3.6 metres in length is the largest crocodile at the zoo. Throw in a huge komodo dragon – one of only four in the UK – and countless other animals, and Crocodiles of the World kept myself and my otherwise easily-distracted young boys enthralled and entertained for more than five hours. The zoo is Tardis-like and feels much larger inside than its outside appearance may suggest. It houses an indoor café with reasonably-priced fare, an outside play and picnic area, a gift shop and an education zone. Its main attractions are indoor so the weather isn’t a factor and it is competitively priced too, with adult tickets costing £8.95, children under 16 £6.50 and family tickets £27. For those wanting a little bit extra and for an extra fee, there is also the opportunity to handle a croc, ‘meet’ a croc and feed a croc along with other animal experiences. Unsurprisingly, the zoo is popular with groups and offers educational tours for schools and other parties too and can also organise outreach visits to schools and community clubs. On leaving, it was clear that in our various ways, we all had a far deeper knowledge and understanding of crocodiles and alligators and old feelings of unadulterated fear had been replaced with a new-found respect – and just the right amount of fear – for these most fascinating creatures. Highlights n Only zoo in the UK to successfully breed critically endangered Siamese crocodiles n Only zoo in the UK to successfully breed vulnerable Tomistoma crocodiles n One of only four zoos in the UK where you can see a komodo dragon

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