Crocodile farming in UK is carried out with the function of protecting the species since they produce it and not for the production of the skin. Crocodiles are highly sought after because their skin is used to make high-quality leather goods like shoes, bags, jackets, etc. Crocodiles also have a great economic value in terms of tourism as well as medicinal purposes which include treating warts among other things. Crocodiles are not categorized under farm animals but there are certain penalties for those who carry out indiscriminate hunting of this species.
So the animals must be treated with care, in addition, there are supervisors who go to the farms to see the state in which the animals are. In this way, the regulations are made, and the farms are supervised.
Farms of Crocodile
Generally, the farms that are dedicated to crocodile farming UK are located north of the region. There are farms that are dedicated to the production of crocodiles and are around 20 years old. These farms were started as a solution to a crisis that occurred in the early 90s. Where the production of dairy products was not so feasible.
The farms usually raised cows and chickens, but due to the changes, they sought to raise exotic animals that would give them a good profit. And they decided to import crocodiles, so they got Nile crocodiles, after having applied for permits. The first crocodiles that were on a farm in the UK live in pools that adapted perfectly to the environment in which this breed is raised.
In addition, the temperature had to be conditioned so that it was at 30 degrees Celsius. This farm became the first farm in the United Kingdom to raise crocodiles in captivity. They also look to expand to have a larger farm that can accommodate a larger number of crocodiles. And may even have a swamp to resemble the natural conditions of crocodiles. The species they own on farms are capable of producing between 30 and 70 eggs but only produce them once a year.
Commercialization
The production of crocodiles in the UK covers a different trade to the countries of the Middle East. Even in the UK crocodile production is mostly used for meat production. Although the production of crocodile meat is a trade that gives long-term profitability. Since it is necessary to wait between 4 and 5 years that the crocodiles mature to be able to sacrifice them, and thus to obtain great amounts of product.
Also, the meat of this animal has low-fat content and is a very good flavor. Therefore, its trade not only extends to the national market but also extends to the international market. The second use that is given to the species is the production of the skin. You may also like to read Nile Crocodile Farming
Regulations of Crocodile Farming in UK
The farms that are dedicated to Crocodile farming UK must have records and permits to carry out this activity. The farms, besides producing, have to worry about preserving the species and taking care of the crocodiles that they raise. Something that the farms in the UK have by law is to keep track of all the crocodiles that are born, and that arrive at the farms.
In addition, there are strong sanctions for those who conduct indiscriminate hunting of species that are outdoors. But there is not enough personnel to regulate the indiscriminate hunting of this species. So there is little chance that they will find poachers. The farmers of that country do not seek to enrich themselves with the production of crocodiles, they carry out the work of protecting the species.
Besides that they do not produce it for their skin, nor seek to exploit the species, they must protect it and take care of it in order to produce it. And so avoid illegal production and the indiscriminate hunting of crocodiles. There is also a Law that establishes the protection of farm animals, which was carried out in 1995. And when producing these animals on farms they fall within this law. In addition, farmers are urged not to perform inhumane acts against crocodiles, sacrifices should not cause torture to animals.
Spaces where the species is breed
Although the crocodiles are allowed to breed in farms, the spaces where they live in captivity must be well-conditioned. They must also have the necessary space, so they can spread and not stress. Since being in small spaces, and having a large number of individuals in space, there is a confrontation between the animals. You may also like to read about Crocodile farming in South Africa
What makes the skin have wounds, and if they are in ponds with dirty water does not allow you to heal wounds well. The spaces must be well-conditioned so that the place of captivity resembles as much as possible its natural habitat.
The production of this animal is done not to get its skin, but to produce its meat. However, it should be given the same care, and protect and preserve the species. In addition, the facilities where the crocodiles are raised must acclimate and sufficiently condition. The animals should be fed with fresh meat and that is in good condition since the fate of these crocodiles is for human consumption.
Another thing that is to observe a lot in that country, is that the sacrifices are not tortures towards the species. So the staff that sacrifices the crocodiles should know a lot about the anatomy of the species. Because the skull is very thick, and when they make sacrifices they should not cause pain, and the species should not be mistreated.
FAQ
Can crocodiles live in UK?
No, crocodiles are not native to the UK and cannot be found in the wild. Crocodiles require warm climates and would not survive in the cold, wet conditions of the UK. They also need a large body of water in which to live, such as a river or lake. The UK does not have any large bodies of water that are suitable for crocodiles to live in.
Can you farm crocodiles?
Yes, it is possible to farm crocodiles. Farming crocodiles involves raising them in a controlled environment and providing them with food, shelter, and medical care. Crocodile farming is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative source of income for rural communities in many parts of the world.
What country has the largest crocodile farm?
The largest crocodile farm in the world is located in Thailand. The farm, known as Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo, is home to over 100,000 crocodiles of various species. It was founded by a Thai entrepreneur named Prayudh Mahaguna in 1950 and has since become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can observe the crocodiles being fed and learn about their behavior and habitats. The farm also houses other animals such as tigers, lions, monkeys, and birds.
Conclusion
Crocodile meat is luxury meat and of very good quality, so the species should be cared for not only physically. But you should watch the diet of the animal. Although the animal has many bacteria, these do not enter your body or cause diseases to people. As long as it is a well-fed animal, and that its diet does not contain waste or dead animals. Thanks for reading!
As a reference: Wikipedia
