Working with the False Gharial – One of the World’s Largest, Rarest Crocodiles

[findi]

Hi All,
I find it difficult to express just how fortunate I’ve been in having had the chance to work with 12 Crocodilian species in the wild and captivity. Breeding Dwarf Caimans, wrestling Orinoco Crocodiles into boats, getting up close and personal to Gomek (a giant, now famous Salt Water Croc), rearing Indian Gharials…these and many other experiences remain etched in my memory. One species in particular cemented my interest in the group, and remains as much a mystery today as it was when I first saw it some 40 years ago – the massive False Gharial, Tomistoma schlegelii. Read more here http://bit.ly/Z8thaC
Please also check out my posts on Twitter http://bitly.com/JP27Nj.

Thanks, Frank
My Bio, with photos of animals I’ve been lucky enough to work with http://bitly.com/LC8Lbp
Face Book http://on.fb.me/KckP1m

 

[freedumbdclxvi]

Great read! These are one of my favorite animals, and I am quite happy to live relatively near the St Augustine Alligator Farm, where these can be seen.

 

[findi]

Great read! These are one of my favorite animals, and I am quite happy to live relatively near the St Augustine Alligator Farm, where these can be seen.

Thanks for the kind words. St Augustine is a wonderful institution; I was lucky to get a close-up visit with Gomek, a huge salt water croc, while visiting some years ago. Did you have a chance to see that animal? Amazing, no matter how many crocs one has seen! Best, Frank

 

[freedumbdclxvi]

I did not. When I first visited, it was about ten years after he passed. They already had Maximo then, but he is one impressive croc himself! I would have loved to see Gomek.

 

[findi]

I did not. When I first visited, it was about ten years after he passed. They already had Maximo then, but he is one impressive croc himself! I would have loved to see Gomek.

I think that after a certain size, differences aren't very noticable..they are all very impressive. Nice to know there are still surprises out there as well, like the last giant that was caught in the Philippines. Best, Frank

 

[1Lord Of Ants1]

Nice read!

And boy, what a life you have! What I wouldn't give to have all those experiences. Maybe one day!

 

[findi]

Nice read!

And boy, what a life you have! What I wouldn't give to have all those experiences. Maybe one day!

I have been very fortunate, thanks. I would not have thought it possible...my road was very twisted, but fortunately all worked out. let me know if you nee any advice or info as time goes on...there's nothing quite like turning your passion into a career, best, frank