Siamese Croc Hatchlings living with Mum and Dad!

Keep a look out for baby Siamese crocs when you next visit, as we’re delighted to share that we have reintroduced three Siamese crocodile hatchlings to their parents, Hugo and Rebecca – marking a UK first for this critically endangered species.

Although the eggs were initially removed for artificial incubation to ensure healthy development, once the young crocodiles had hatched and were strong and ready, they were reintroduced to their parents.

Despite their size, studies show that crocodiles are exceptionally gentle and nurturing with their young – mothers will gently carry their hatchlings in their mouths to safety and defend them from potential threat for several months. Fathers have been seen with hatchlings on their back, but as a critically endangered species the role of Siamese crocodile fathers is still understudied.

Crocodiles of the World’s Founder, Shaun Fogget, said: “Rebecca has had her hands full trying to keep tabs on all three young hatchlings, but is now settling well into family life. Hugo was the first to show curiosity when they were reintroduced and has been interacting with them gently and calmly ever since – an incredible sight. He has also become extra protective of the whole habitat since the hatchlings have been around!”

He added: “We have reintroduced hatchling crocs of five other species before at the zoo, such as American alligators, but this is the first time we have done this with the Siamese crocodiles and will hopefully provide a unique opportunity to learn more about this understudied critically endangered species.”

Siamese crocodiles, who can reach up to 3 metres in length, are a freshwater crocodile native to South East Asia. Very little is known about this critically endangered species, which has already been eradicated from many regions. Previously declared extinct, until being rediscovered in Cambodia, it is feared that there could be less than 1000 left in the wild, due to habitat loss and hybridisation.

Many zoos have hybrid Siamese crocodile species, but following DNA testing in 2013, Hugo and Rebecca are confirmed as genetically pure Siamese crocodiles, further emphasising the importance of this successful breeding and rearing at the zoo. Crocodiles of the World is dedicated to the conservation of crocodiles and collaborates with Fauna & Flora International (FFI) to fund rangers to protect the species.