Wild crocodiles are unconditionally protected in South America, Asia, Africa and Australia. Consequently, these magnificent animals are not hunted. The entire importing process is monitored, starting in the exporting country and ending in the importing country.
During the breeding season, the crocodiles’ eggs are collected and then incubated in incubators. After the eggs are hatched, the crocodiles are moved into a breeding enclosure that mimics their natural habitat. Here, the animals can move freely over land or through water.
The most commonly imported crocodile meat is that of the Nile crocodile. Nile crocodile meat is pale, almost white. The meat is firm and has some fat throughout it. Crocodile tastes similar to poultry. The crocodiles on crocodile farms are on a proprietary diet. This consists of 10% fish and 90% vegetable pellets. This way, the meat retains its unique flavour.
Available frozen
One of South Africa’s largest crocodile farms is located between Bela Bela and Modimolle in the Waterberg region. It was established 25 years ago. Since 2010, the farm has been certified as a Veterinary Approved Establishment. This farm is the only one to export crocodile meat to Europe. There are about 1000 Nile crocodiles at the farm, of which 20% are males and 80% are females.
The crocodile farm also facilitates tours of the compound, teaching visitors about Africa’s most feared predator.
The game population has increased significantly over the past years. In 35 years, it has quadrupled. In areas where poaching used to take place, the animals are now protected and fall under the Protection of Exotic Species Act. Crocodile meat imports are fully controlled by the CITES agency. CITES is the treaty that regulates trade in crocodile meat.
"Crocodile is often described as a unique taste experience. Are you curious about animal welfare? I would be happy to tell you all about it!"
