Tamil NaduCrocodile Bank

Dec,2015
Address: Post Bag No 4, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
How to go: From Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) you will get frequent express busses for east coast road. The same bus will take you to that place.
Pros: Environment, maintenance, adequate species of crocodiles
Cons: Lack of food stall.
What to visit ? The whole crocodile Bank
Company: Family, kids, friends.
Minimum day/time to visit: 3 hrs max. inside the bank.
Locality: Outskirts (East coast road)
Expenses: 200 per head.
More Information: The Crocodile Bank on the East Coast of Tamil Nadu, officially known as the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology (MCBT), is a world-renowned reptile conservation and research facility. It is located near the coastal town of Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), approximately 40 kilometers south of Chennai, along the East Coast Road (ECR).

Overview
Established: 1976 Founder: Romulus Whitaker, an American-born herpetologist and conservationist
Purpose: Conservation, captive breeding, research, and education about reptiles, especially crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and snakes.
Area: About 8.5 acres of lush, forested land
Status: Registered Trust and recognized zoo under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

Key Objectives
Conservation of endangered reptiles, especially crocodilians.
Captive breeding programs to support populations of rare and endangered species.
Public education on reptiles and their ecological importance.
Scientific research and collaboration with global conservation networks.
Rescue and rehabilitation of injured or illegally captured reptiles.

Main Attractions
1. Crocodile Enclosures
Houses over 2,000 reptiles, including three native Indian crocodile species:
Mugger (Marsh Crocodile)
Gharial (Fish-eating Crocodile)
Saltwater Crocodile
Also features exotic species like Nile crocodiles, American alligators, and dwarf caimans.

2. Snake Park and Reptile House
A diverse collection of snakes including king cobras, vipers, pythons, and rat snakes.
Focuses on venomous and non-venomous snake identification and awareness.

3. Turtle and Tortoise Enclosures
Home to species like the Aldabra giant tortoise, Indian star tortoise, and various freshwater turtles.
Part of international breeding and conservation programs.

4. Night Safari (Nocturnal House)
Offers visitors a chance to observe the behavior of reptiles at night under simulated moonlight conditions.

5. Interactive Exhibits & Educational Tours
Regularly conducted reptile awareness sessions, workshops, and feeding demonstrations.
School and college groups often visit as part of educational programs.

Research and Conservation Efforts
The Crocodile Bank is involved in:
Captive breeding of endangered reptiles for rewilding.
Field research across India and Southeast Asia.
Genetic studies and habitat monitoring.
Collaboration with institutions like the Wildlife Institute of India, UNEP, and IUCN.
The Gharial conservation project, in particular, has been a flagship program, helping to stabilize its population in the wild.

Eco-Conscious Facility
The facility is designed to mimic natural habitats.
Maintains lush greenery to support local biodiversity, including birds and insects.
Employs sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly enclosures.

Visitor Information
Timings: Usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day except Mondays.
Entry Fees: Reasonably priced; discounts available for students and groups.
Facilities: Gift shop, eco-café, clean restrooms, and shaded seating areas.

Location
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, East Coast Road, Vadanemmeli, Mamallapuram (near Kovalam Beach), Tamil Nadu – 603104, India

Global Recognition
One of the largest reptile conservation centers in Asia.
Plays a critical role in international species conservation, particularly for critically endangered reptiles.
Frequently featured in wildlife documentaries and research publications.
http://www.madrascrocodilebank.org/ Get more information from this website.

Picture Gallery

Video Gallery

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