AusLeisure

Torrential rain along the New South Wales coast this morning caused waters to rise rapidly at the Australian Reptile Park allowing a massive male American Alligator to swim over an internal boundary fence, causing him to be stuck between fences.

Keepers at the Australian Reptile Park were alerted to the alligator in need of relocating and moved fast moved fast to undertake the incredibly dangerous task to get him back over the fence, joining the 55 alligators in the lagoon.

Jake Meney, the Head Reptile Keeper who led the risky task advised “you never really know the temperament of an alligator so although this guy was pretty happy to be relocated, we have to be prepared for him change his mind at any stage.

“This dangerous task was heightened even more by the torrential rain that did not let up, making the ground and the gator incredibly slippery.

“We found him in a tricky spot this morning before the Park opened. Although there was no danger of him breaching the main boundary fence near visitors, there was still no way he would have been able to get back into the lagoon on his own.”

Increasing instances of these abnormal weather events mean that Keepers are constantly on the lookout to ensure the best care for their animals and staff, no matter the situation.

In addition to the dramatic relocate from this morning, staff have found multiple areas of the Park overflowing with water and white rapids of water rushing through the Park’s waterfalls and creeks.

Staff will continue to be all hands-on deck as they protect and relocate animals if necessary and ensure everyone is safe as they prepare for a wet week ahead.

The Australian Reptile Park is a hands-on zoo located the natural bush setting of the Central Coast of NSW, only 60 minutes from Sydney or Newcastle and recently won 2019 Major Tourism Attraction in New South Wales. Visitors can enjoy live entertaining shows, themed exhibits, and interaction with many of the wildlife sanctuaries residents. The Park is open daily from 9am-5pm, with complimentary parking and BBQ facilities. More information at www.reptilepark.com.au  

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