Amaravathi Crocodile Farm
The Amaravathi Crocodile Farm is a popular tourist attraction located in Amaravathi, which is a town in the Tiruppur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The farm is officially known as the “Amaravathi Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Centre.” It is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of crocodiles.
Crocodile Breeding in the center :
The farm is involved in breeding different species of crocodiles, including the Mugger crocodile and the Indian Gharial. The center plays a crucial role in preserving and rehabilitating these reptiles, which are considered endangered in the wild.
Mugger Crocodile :
The Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is a moderate-sized freshwater crocodile species that hails from the Indian subcontinent and neighboring areas. In comparison to some of their larger crocodile relatives, Muggers are relatively modest in size, typically reaching lengths of 8 to 10 feet (2.5 to 3 meters) in adulthood, although exceptionally large individuals can extend to impressive lengths of up to 13 feet (4 meters).
Muggers primarily make their homes in freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and marshes, but they can also adapt to brackish water environments. These adaptable crocodiles are known to inhabit a wide variety of aquatic habitats throughout their native range.
Indian Gharial :
The Indian Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a crocodile species in critical endangerment, native to the Indian subcontinent. It stands out due to its distinctive and elongated snout, which distinguishes it from other crocodile species. This specialized snout is perfectly designed for its primary diet, fish.
Among all crocodilian species, Gharials are some of the largest, with adult males capable of reaching impressive lengths of up to 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters), although larger individuals have been occasionally documented. These extraordinary reptiles are finely adapted to life in swiftly flowing rivers and are predominantly found in the major river systems of the Indian subcontinent, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus rivers.
Research in Amaravathi Crocodile Farm:
The Amaravathi Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Centre, also known as the Amaravathi Crocodile Farm, is dedicated to both conservation and research related to crocodiles. It serves as an educational center as well, providing information and raising awareness about these reptiles.
Crocodile Behavior and Biology: The farm conducts research to better understand the behavior, biology, and ecology of crocodiles, specifically focusing on the Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) and the Indian Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). This research can include studies on their feeding habits, reproduction, territorial behavior, and response to environmental changes.
Habitat Studies: Researchers at the center may conduct studies on the crocodiles’ natural habitat and the environmental factors that affect their populations. Understanding their habitat requirements is essential for conservation efforts.
Conservation Programs: The research conducted at Amaravathi Crocodile Farm contributes to conservation programs aimed at protecting these endangered crocodile species. This may involve captive breeding, habitat restoration, and the release of individuals back into the wild.
Genetic Research: Genetic research is important for assessing the genetic diversity and health of crocodile populations. It helps in identifying potential inbreeding risks and can inform breeding and conservation strategies.
Education:
Visitor Center: The crocodile farm likely has a visitor center where the public can learn about crocodiles, their conservation status, and their role in the ecosystem. Visitors can view the crocodiles and engage with educational displays and exhibits.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are often available for visitors, where knowledgeable guides provide information about crocodile biology, conservation efforts, and safety guidelines for interacting with crocodiles.
Awareness Programs:
The crocodile farm likely hosts school groups and educational tours, providing students with a unique opportunity to learn about crocodiles and their conservation. These visits may include interactive presentations, guided tours, and hands-on activities.
Awareness programs can highlight the crocodile farm’s conservation efforts and how individuals can support these initiatives. This might include opportunities for volunteering, adopting a crocodile, or contributing to conservation projects.
The crocodile farm may collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), wildlife departments, and government agencies to further their conservation and awareness efforts.
In today’s digital age, awareness programs may also include online resources such as informative websites, social media presence, and virtual tours to reach a broader audience.
Visiting Hours and Entry Fee of Amaravathi :
The Crocodile farm welcomes visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 06:00 PM. The entrance fee is Rs. 20 per person, and there is an additional Rs. 20 charge for camera usage and bikes. If you’re arriving by car, there is a parking fee of Rs. 50.
How to reach Amaravathi Crocodile Farm:
Traveling by Road:
- From Tiruppur: If you’re starting your journey from Tiruppur, simply head east in the direction of Amaravathi. The crocodile farm is situated approximately 25-30 kilometers to the east of Tiruppur, accessible via State Highway 21.
- From Nearby Cities: If you’re traveling from nearby cities like Coimbatore, utilize major highways such as NH 67 and NH 544 to reach Tiruppur. Once in Tiruppur, follow the aforementioned directions to reach the crocodile farm.
Traveling by Train:
- Using the Nearest Railway Station: The closest major railway station to Amaravathi is Tiruppur Junction. You can opt for a train to Tiruppur from various cities, and from there, you can continue your journey by road to reach the crocodile farm.
Traveling by Air:
- Utilizing the Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport serves as the nearest airport to Amaravathi. You can book a flight to Coimbatore from major cities across India. Upon arrival at Coimbatore, you can then hire a taxi or use public transportation to make your way to Amaravathi, which is approximately 60-70 kilometers from the airport.