Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/crocodile-gallops/

Just a few weeks ago, an image of a handbag made of crocodile skin on exhibit at the London Zoo drew the attention of many on social media.

Instead of a live Siamese crocodile inside the glass enclosure, the zoo has chosen to display the handbag with a placard that reads: “This bag used to be found swimming in slow-moving rivers and streams across Southeast Asia and Indonesia. Over the last 75 years, more than 80% of Siamese crocodiles have disappeared. Many, like this one, were hunted for their skins as part of the illegal wildlife trade.”

The zoo’s campaign for the conservation of such critically-endangered animals quickly caught fire after the image was shared on Twitter. Many expressed their thoughts about the negative impacts of illegal trade and praised the zoo for its efforts to educate its visitors.

crocodile gallop in line2 1 - A Cuban Crocodile Gallops like a Horse in Pursuit of a Man in a Florida Theme Park
Photo: Facebook Video/Gatorland Orlando

One commenter wrote: “This is why zoos are so important. They teach the public to care about wildlife!”

Another person remarked: “That’s quite a lovely bag but I’d like it better if it was made of faux leather as to spare the crocodile’s life though… 🤩👜🐊”

Here’s another commenter’s passionate opinion: “That’s the kind of zoo I can get behind! No live caged animals, just the consequences of humans.”

While, another individual shared this meaningful message: “Thanks for getting the word out about this. Hopefully it actually gets through to some people. Killing animals for fashion and makeup will never be justified.”

crocodile gallop in line3 1 - A Cuban Crocodile Gallops like a Horse in Pursuit of a Man in a Florida Theme Park
Photo: Facebook Video/Gatorland Orlando

Yes, half of the 24 crocodile species are now listed as critically endangered and vulnerable species. Hunting, illegal trade, and habitat destruction are driving their population to extinction that’s why many people could not help sympathizing.

But, it seems the good feeling could be easily replaced by fear as another viral content is shared on social media and news sites about a really frightening sight of a galloping crocodile in pursuit of a man at a theme park and wildlife preserve in Florida.

The video was posted by Gatorland Orlando, showing their Cuban crocodile GALLOPING — not waddling — just like a horse running crazy after a man and the footage is HAIR-RAISING!

Watch to believe it!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog