From Brize Norton to Barbados
Oxfordshire zoo relocates American alligators to Barbados in international conservation partnership
Crocodiles of the World, the UK’s only crocodile zoo based near Burford in Oxfordshire, has relocated seven young American alligators to Barbados as part of an international zoological partnership designed to support conservation through education, collaboration and public engagement.
The animals, bred at the Oxfordshire Zoo, have been transferred to Paradise Nature Park in Barbados, marking the first time American alligators have been on the island. The alligators are the offspring of American alligators, Albert and Daisy at the zoo and at the time of transfer, the juveniles measured approximately 1.5 metres in length and weighed around 10kg.
The move follows more than two years of planning and involved extensive coordination, including veterinary health checks, transport logistics and international regulatory approvals.
While American alligators are not currently endangered, the partnership reflects the important role modern zoos play in conservation beyond breeding programmes. By introducing the species to a new audience, the collaboration will help educate visitors about the ecological importance of crocodilians, the challenges many species face in the wild and the need to protect wetland habitats around the world.
Crocodiles of the World Founder, Shaun Foggett, accompanied the animals throughout their journey from the UK, overseeing their departure, air transport procedures and arrival alongside specialist animal care teams. He said: “American alligators are remarkable animals that play an important ecological role in their native habitats, yet crocodilians remain some of the world’s most misunderstood species.
“Conservation isn’t just about breeding endangered animals. It’s about helping people understand wildlife, appreciate its role in the natural world and inspire them to care about protecting it. Every visitor who leaves with a better understanding of these incredible reptiles becomes another voice for conservation.
“This partnership with Paradise Nature Park allows us to share knowledge about crocodilian biology, behaviour and the vital role these animals play in healthy ecosystems. It also demonstrates the value of international collaboration between zoos in delivering excellent animal welfare and meaningful conservation education.”
Mitchel Hird, Managing Director of Paradise Nature Park, said:
“We have been working closely with Crocodiles of the World for more than two years to make this transfer possible. On several occasions it looked unlikely to happen, so we are pleased to have successfully completed the process.
“These alligators are the first of their kind in Barbados and will provide visitors, particularly school groups, with a unique opportunity to experience these fascinating animals up close. We hope that by learning more about crocodilians and their importance to ecosystems, people will develop a greater appreciation for wildlife and the need to conserve it for future generations.
“The alligators have settled in well since their arrival, and we’re excited to welcome visitors to meet them.”
Crocodiles of the World is home to more than 100 crocodilians, including endangered species, and works to conserve these ancient reptiles through breeding programmes, education and international collaboration. As a member of both the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the zoo is committed to the highest standards of animal welfare while inspiring thousands of visitors each year to better understand and protect crocodilians and the habitats they depend on.
