The classic Florida attraction that’s older than Disney World is growing its mission and getting involved in conservation projects around the world.
“Our mission is to protect, conserve, and educate,” said Gatorland ambassador Savannah Boan[2], who has been traveling to different countries throughout the year. “We want everyone to be safe and we want everyone to appreciate the wildlife you know wherever they’re from.”
Gatorland created Gatorland Global[3] in 2018 but its conservation arm has expanded since gaining its nonprofit status this year.
Right now, Boan is working with Holland Bay Crocodile Sanctuary in Jamaica that takes in nuisance crocs. Boan is regularly traveling to the Jamaica refuge where Gatorland is helping fund as Boan helps the organization screen and release hatchlings into the wild.
Last month, Boan flew to Australia to learn more about the county’s educational efforts to help keep the public safe from crocodiles. Boan said she came home with fresh ideas for Florida, including collaborating with realtors to give safety tips in the welcome baskets for new residents who might otherwise be unfamiliar with the giant reptiles.
Also on her itinerary was a stop in East Timor, a small island where crocodiles fit into the culture as part of the creation story.
“That was really a beautiful experience,” Boan said. “I got to do a ceremony where the community elder was able to bless me to keep me safe from crocodiles.”
About once a year, Boan also goes to Cuba and has helped release more than 90 Cuban crocodiles back into Zapata Swamp.
Boan could return in November for another release to help grow the animals’ numbers, she said.
“Every day I get to see the fruits of all of these efforts in real life, in real time, and it’s just the most amazing feeling in the world,” said Boan, Gatorland’s Crocodilian Enrichment Coordinator, whose job has even led to an appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show[4].”
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References
- ^ Gatorland (www.gatorland.com)
- ^ Savannah Boan (www.instagram.com)
- ^ Gatorland Global (www.gatorlandglobal.org)
- ^ The Drew Barrymore Show (www.orlandosentinel.com)