In this article, we will know about Crocodile farming in Kenya. Although there are several farms established in Kenya and have their permits, the commercialization and breeding of crocodiles are not fully accepted. However, it is one of the ways in which some people have been able to establish themselves economically. Since crocodile breeding means a big initial expense, it also generates great benefits and doubles the investment but in the long term.
There are breeders who have taken advantage, and come to market everything that can be generated by crocodiles, from the skin, meat, bones, blood, fats, among others. So they have expanded the market, and get different sources of income from the same animal. In addition, there are several breeders who have converted their farms into areas that are open to the public, which has driven tourism.
Crocodile farming is a good business to invest in, but it is not for the faint-hearted. Crocodiles are wild animals and this trade requires patience and great confidence. Crocodile farmers have to wait from 5-8 years before they start seeing returns on their investment; that’s why many people shy away from this type of work. But if you can handle death every day, then croc farming may be the best business for you!
Today there are several people who are interested and invest in this. And more since the species, and the skins that they obtain from these species are of high quality, which has increased the commercial value of the skins of this region.
Commercialization
Kenya’s exports are usually made to China, and the commercialization of this country is increasing every time. As both the skin of the crocodile, as the meat is quoted in hotels, and in tourist places. In addition, crocodile meat has been placed in some gourmet dishes, and diners say that the taste of the meat is very similar to the taste of chicken.
Crocodiles can be commercialized for between $ 50 and $ 70. In general, the market in Kenya is for the sale of the skin of these precious animals, which make shoes, and handbags, among others. All the traders that carry out this market can double the investment they make.
Farms of Crocodile Farming in Kenya
There are more than 20 crocodile farms inside Kenya. But it has tripled the number of farms that have requested the approval of permits to open crocodile farms. In general, farms are places with pond areas, so that crocodiles can be in the water, as well as dry places. These spaces have walls that are quite steep so the animals do not escape from the spaces.
The feeding of these animals is carried out with a combined diet. Where they include corn and other cereals which bind them with meat so that they are palatable to crocodiles. In addition to this, they also include fish, meat, and even chicken, as fresh as possible. The breeders and workers of the farms have the task of collecting the eggs.
In this way, they separate the eggs and take them to other spaces so they can take care of them and incubate them. Thus the large species are in freedom on the farm, while the small ones are kept in separate places and without danger. In addition, farmers must keep the ponds clean, and thus the crocodiles do not contract diseases. There are even diseases that endanger all crocodiles and it is smallpox.
For this reason, breeders must be aware of the health of the animals. There are farms that care about the production of high-quality skins. While others only work to produce crocodile meat and thus be able to serve the restaurants and hotels of the region. In addition, the breeders had the great idea of ​​perfectly adapting the farms to the wildlife of the crocodiles.
Precautions
In Kenya, there have been several altercations on farms by the carelessness of the staff working on the farms. News that has become viral, in which the staff by an oversight is attacked by crocodiles. That is why safety is an important factor when doing work near crocodiles, feed them, or be near these animals. You may also like to read Crocodile farming profitability.
Since in addition to the attacks, people can be mutilated and can even die from injuries. The personnel working with these animals must have experienced, and also take the respective safety measures.
Costs
Although the initial cost in other countries comes to exceed several million dollars. In Kenya, the initial amount to start a farm is less than one million dollars, which makes it quite profitable. Although initial costs are always high, the results of this investment can triple.
As long as the products obtained are of excellent quality. There are companies that can produce up to 2 million dollars in revenue. Since they have a high annual production rate. In addition, established farms have a large number of crocodiles. You may also like to read about the Crocodile farming industry.
Breeds
The Nile crocodile is one of the most significant animals in Kenya for a number of reasons. Not only does it bring with its tradition and culture, but also human-wildlife conflicts that have been prevalent during recent years as well as being an important resource to people living near lakes or rivers who need water from the river’s edge on which this animal dwells; however, these same people might be its next victim when fetching such resources.
The average weight ranges between 410kg (900lbs) and 1,800 kg (4200 lbs), while they can grow up to 5 meters long (~15 feet). This large reception has caused numerous attacks against humans throughout different regions within Africa like Tanzania where at least 30% of all adult females are
FAQ
How much is crocodile meat in Kenya?
The price of crocodile meat in Kenya varies depending on the market and the supplier. Generally, it is more expensive than other meats such as beef or chicken, with prices ranging from KSh 800 to KSh 1500 per kilogram. It is also relatively difficult to find crocodile meat in Kenya, as it is not a common item on most restaurant menus or grocery store shelves.
How much is a kilo of crocodile meat?
The cost of a kilo of crocodile meat varies greatly depending on the source. Generally, it ranges anywhere from $20-$50 USD per kilo. The price is typically determined by the size and age of the animal, as well as the availability of the meat in that particular area.
How much are crocodile eggs in Kenya?
The price of crocodile eggs in Kenya varies depending on the type of crocodile and the quantity purchased. For example, a single egg from a Nile crocodile can cost up to $100 USD while a clutch of 25 eggs from a smaller species such as the Dwarf Crocodile may cost around $200 USD.
Conclusion
The market for crocodile production is growing gradually in Kenya and more for the great economic benefits that a farm brings. Of course, always evaluating the investment rate, the rate of return, but more and more people want to join this activity in that region. In addition, it geographically favors, and the requirements of the facilities are few.
As a reference: Wikipedia
