Colgate is one captivating character
The Scottburgh based conservation centre homes Colgate and Henry, two of their biggest crocs.
Scottburgh’s Crocworld Conservation Centre is globally known for one of its most popular residents, Henry the 122 year old massive Nile crocodile, but also for its incredible second-biggest croc, 90-year-old Colgate.
This croc is a fan favourite as well and resides at Pen 9. He lives with his 36 wives (with whom he has fathered many, many crocodilians over the years) and is 4.8m long and 650kg. This adds Colgate to the list of the largest Nile crocodiles in captivity worldwide.
“We’re fortunate at Crocworld to have not one, but two of the world’s most impressive Nile crocodiles in captivity!” said Wade Kilian, reptile curator at Crocworld.
“Colgate was brought to the centre in 1985 from Botswana’s Okavango Delta, and we estimate his age to be 90 because of his size and condition.”
He said because crocodilians are considered the ‘ultimate survivors’ and some of the oldest known species on the planet, many people do not realise just how threatened they are.
“Crocodiles are apex predators, which means they play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to prevent habitat degradation by overpopulation, and regulating populations of their preferred prey species,” he explained.
“Over the past 38 years, many visitors have learnt more about crocodilians by visiting the centre and meeting Colgate, and we’re excited his role at Crocworld ensures many future generations will be educated in conservation.”
Colgate earned his name from his endearing smile, showing pearly white teeth accentuated by his darker appearance.
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