Croc-tastic Fun: Celebrate World Crocodile Day

Each year, June 17th marks World Crocodile Day, a day to celebrate these revered prehistoric creatures.

SPARK POP has taken a moment to explore and share with you a glimpse into their fascinating history and highlight some of the exciting ways you can encounter crocodiles all around Australia.

Crocodiles are woven into the fabric of childhood, from the classic rhyme “See you later, alligator” to the song “Never Smile at a Crocodile” and beloved books like Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile and the latest book-turned-film Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. These references are friendly reminders of their place in the world.

But nothing beats meeting these magnificent reptiles up close. Let’s highlight the best places where children and families can encounter crocodiles, explore their prehistoric past, and enjoy engaging activities during the holidays.

Discover Crocodiles Up Close

1. Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin

   Located in the heart of Darwin, Crocosaurus Cove offers an unforgettable experience with some of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles. Kids can enjoy the thrill of the Cage of Death, the only place in the world where you can swim with these mighty predators. Don’t miss the opportunity to feed baby crocs or take a dip in the Swim with the Crocs pool!

2. Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise, Middle Point NT

   Just an hour from Darwin, you’ll find Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise taking passengers along the Adelaide River, well-known for its high concentration of saltwater crocs. Witness the iconic Saltwater Crocodile in action, while the experienced crew teach you about the biology and ecology of the creatures and the Adelaide River that they inhabit.

3. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Cairns QLD

   This eco-friendly attraction in Cairns provides an up-close look at crocodiles in their natural habitat. Take a boat ride on Hartley’s Lagoon and watch these impressive creatures in action. Educational talks and feeding shows make it an exciting and informative outing for the whole family.

4. Koorana Crocodile Farm, Yeppoon QLD

   Home to over 3,000 crocs, Koorana Crocodile Farm was Queensland’s first commercial crocodile farm. Here you can learn about crocodile conservation, enjoy a farm walk and feeding session, and have a hands-on photo opportunity with a small crocodile. Those who attend a tour are invited to stay and dine for lunch to try a croc meal.

5. Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast

   Home of the Crocodile Hunter, Australia Zoo offers a unique crocodile experience. Catch the Wildlife Warriors show at the Crocoseum, where you’ll see crocodiles showcasing their natural behaviors. Explore the zoo and learn about the conservation efforts championed by the Irwin family.

   

   Croc Tours Australia Zoo

6. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast

   ‘Boss Hogg’ is Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s resident male saltwater crocodile – reaching almost 5 meters in length and weighing about 800 kilograms! This saltie was caught in the mid-1980s from far north Queensland after he killed a Brahman stud bull worth over $10,000. Tweens, teens, and parents can take a thrilling zipline over the crocodile enclosure when visiting Treetop Challenge Currumbin.

7. Australian Reptile Park, Somersby NSW

   Visitors to Australian Reptile Park can meet one of the most popular crocs in Australia, Elvis, who has been given the title of “Australia’s Crankiest Crocodile” after stealing a lawn mower from his keepers in 2011. From the Northern Territory, Elvis measures in at just under 5 meters long, making him one of the biggest in captivity.

8. Sydney Wildlife Zoo

   Sydney Wildlife Zoo is centrally located in Sydney’s Darling Harbour. This is a great stop for families with children of all ages offering an accessible and unique crocodile experience. Get up close to the three saltwater crocodiles through the viewing dome and an enclosure with glass.

   

   Up close and personal with a freshwater crocodile at Sydney Wild Life Zoo.

9. Melbourne Zoo

   Home to the endangered Philippine Crocodile, Melbourne Zoo offers a chance to see one of the rarest crocodile species in the world, with fewer than 120 left in the wild. Learn about their conservation efforts and what is being done to protect these critically endangered reptiles.

10. Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, Broome WA

    Located in Broome, Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park offers a crocodile feeding tour at 3 pm daily. This educational and memorable experience invites visitors to get up close to see these powerful predators in action. The park is open from 2 to 5 pm daily, except on Christmas.

Crocodiles are often referred to as living dinosaurs, having roamed the Earth for over 200 million years. Their prehistoric relatives, such as the Deinosuchus, were among the top predators of their time. These ancient reptiles have survived mass extinctions and continue to thrive across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

You’ll find crocodiles thriving in freshwater environments like rivers, lakes, wetlands, and marshes, as well as in brackish and saltwater habitats. The region with the highest concentration of crocodiles is Northern Australia, particularly the Northern Territory, known for its extensive populations of saltwater crocodiles.

Engaging with crocodiles doesn’t have to end with a visit to a zoo or park. Here are some additional activities to spark your curiosity and creativity:

• Create a Croc Puppet: Use materials from around the house to make a crocodile puppet and put on a show. Here’s a make your own paper bag croc puppet.
• Crocodile Themed Crafts: Try your hand at making crocodile masks or drawing these fascinating creatures.
• Crocodile Research Project: Dive into books and online resources to learn more about different crocodile species and their habitats. Check out this NGK video.
• Crocodile Games: Play educational games that teach about crocodile behavior and conservation efforts. Remember Wack-a-Croc

World Crocodile Day is a fantastic opportunity to appreciate and learn more about these incredible reptiles. Whether visiting a wildlife park, engaging in fun activities at home, or diving into educational resources, there are plenty of ways to celebrate and understand the vital role crocodiles play in our ecosystem. So, gather your family, embrace the adventure, and make some unforgettable crocodile memories!