Following a winter break, activities involving animal interaction have resumed at the Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre in Scottburgh. Visitors can once again participate in snake demonstrations and practical sessions on handling juvenile crocodiles, combining wildlife encounters with nature conservation educational programs.
The snake sessions, led by Crocworld animal curator Busani Mthiyane, feature non-venomous reptiles such as ball pythons and the center's burmese python. Occasionally, venomous species, including the forest cobra, are also demonstrated under safe conditions.
Studying South African Snakes
The goal of these demonstrations is to raise visitor awareness about the diversity of South African snakes and to teach how to react when encountering a snake in its natural habitat. Mthiyane explained that the sessions cover snake identification, species adaptations, and recommendations on what to do and not to do when finding a snake. Additionally, visitors can take part in controlled practical encounters with some non-venomous snakes. This program is particularly relevant for the KZN South Coast, where locals and tourists may encounter snakes in the wild.
Close Encounters with Crocodiles
Opportunities to interact with juvenile crocodiles have also resumed. This controlled experience gives guests a chance to learn more about reptiles by observing young crocodiles up close under the guidance of trained staff. These activities are part of Crocworld's focus on nature conservation education and its offering as a family adventure destination. The crocodile feeding schedule at Crocworld changes depending on the season, as reptiles consume less food during colder winter months.
Crocodile Feeding Times
The crocodile feeding schedule at Crocworld varies seasonally due to the reduced appetite of the reptiles in cold winter months. The schedule may also be adjusted according to animal welfare requirements and other conditions.
Tuesday to Thursday:
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 10 am – snake interaction; 11 am – crocodile feeding followed by snake interaction; 3 pm – snake interaction only.
Friday to Sunday:
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 10 am – snake interaction; 11 am – crocodile feeding followed by snake interaction; 3 pm – crocodile feeding followed by snake interaction.