Crocs Put on a Show for Tourists
The Rio Grande de Tarcoles flows into the Pacific Ocean and has long been famous for its large population of crocodiles. For years the residents of the Tarcoles area have dreaded the presence of these reptiles and would even set out to kill them in fear that they would eat their livestock.
It wasn’t until a local veterinarian noticed how more and more tourists would stop at the bridge on their way to Jaco and other northern beaches to watch the crocs in their natural habitat. At first, tour guides would tie a dead chicken to the end of a rope and would dangle it over the bridge so that tourists could watch the crocs emerge from underwater.
The veterinarian then had the idea to sail tourists down the river for a closer look at the species. Local tour guides were hired who would fearlessly hand feed these 13 to 20 feet crocs and soon business rapidly picked up. At least other 4 or 5 companies followed in their footsteps and now it is very common to see boats floating down the river packed with curious tourists.
Crocodiles have noticed the extra attention they have been receiving and the wittiest ones even now when and where to wait to be feed. Tour guides have even named a couple of crocs after well known characters due to their personalities. One croc was named after Mike Tyson for its bulky size and bad temper. Another croc has been named after Saddam Hussein for viciously attacking its rivals.
Tourists may opt for this unique tour experience for the rate of $25.
Filed under: Travel and Places
