Here at Crocodile Encounter we are all about education. Using our crocodiles we are able to spread a very good
science message throughout the Houston area and beyond. In our travels we frequently get asked a myriad of questions that
we will address here. Crocodile Encounter is owned and operated by Chris, Bernadette, and Bryson Dieter. We'll add to
this FAQ from time to time so check it now and again for additional items.
1. Have you ever been bit by a crocodile? Well yes and no. Bernadette has been nailed a few times by hatchlings
and once by a snapping turtle. Chris has never been bitten. I'll let the readers decide what that means about the skill
level of the two animal handlers. Hehe:-)
2. What species of crocodilians
are at your location? We currently house 5 species of crocodilians but our primary species is the Nile crocodile from
Africa.
3. What type of events do you perform at? School
shows of all types, birthday parties, cub scout events big and small, colleges, summer camps, nursing homes, day cares, museums,
libraries, fairs and festivals. You name it and we have been there.
4.
Do you sell crocodiles? No although we are not elitists. It takes a special talent to keep a crocodile and alot of
committment of resources. If someone showed themselves up to the task we might consider it after some intern work and alot
of questioning. We wouldn't have ours and the community wouldn't be able to enjoy them if someone didn't do the
same for us some time ago.
5. When you come for a birthday party
how many animals do you bring? We typically bring 10-14 animals that represent the four major reptile groups. People
can request animals if they choose.
6.
How long does the show last? There is no time limit. We setup, present the animals, and play
a question and answer game at the conclusion of the presentation. Each child receives homemade crocodile or turtle candy with
the birthday child receiving a LARGE chocolate crocodile. The birthday child also receives one of our staff shirts. It's
their day and we want them to feel special.
7. What is
the largest crocodile at your location? We have a male that is between 10-11ft. However he will soon be eclipsed by
some of our younger animals that are doing some serious growing and have superior genetics.
8.
How many different turtles does Crocodile Encounter have? At any one time we have 10-11 species
of turtles at our location with varying numbers of each.
9. How
big an audience can you perform for? We have given presentations to audiences of 300-400 individuals at one time. These
are primarily multi media demonstration events for schools or scouts. At fairs and festivals we often have even more in the
audience. Crocs bring BIG crowds.
10. In your opinion which of
your show options is preferable onsite or offsite? This is really up to you. We think the onsite show is simply an
incredible event at the price. Nothing else in the Houston area, or heck, Texas, measures up. Both offer a very unique edu-tainment
experience. We perform hundreds of offsite events every year and the program is both educational and enjoyable for all ages.
11.
Are you open to the public? Can we just drive up? Crocodile Encounter is currently open by appointment
only for onsite visits. This will change in a year or so but for now you must call to set up an appointment. We feel
this provides a more intimate animal experience in contrast to public zoos which are often overcrowded and uncomfortable.
We want you to remember and enjoy your time with the animals. As such your group has private access to the animals.
12.
How did you get involved with this? I have no earthly idea. I'm from Connellsville Pennsylvania
and there isn't a crocodilian for a 1000 miles.
I liked dinosaurs as a child and crocodiles
are the closest thing to that I suppose. I just truly enjoy looking out my window and seeing that level of awesome. Nothing
beats it. Bernadette married into it. Bryson was born into it all. He has no chance:-)
13.
Do you name your animals? Some of them have names, most do not. The crocodiles are the most intelligent
and personable so that lends itself to naming although the tortoises tend to beg for names as well.
14.
Are your crocodiles trained? Yes, all of our crocodiles are trained to respond to a certain
sound. This will be demonstrated at all onsite events. Some are better than others. The crocodiles we have raised are the
best trained while animals we sourced from other locations are less so.
15. What
do you do when a young crocodiles grows up? Get rid of it? OH NO! Never! Crocodilians
start small and get big. As they grow we cycle them threw different enclosures and eventually adult habitats. We think far
ahead about this stuff. The crocodiles almost become family members or more accurately a family that lives next door. Or a
subdivision that exists next door.
16. What do you feed the crocodiles?
We feed a rotating mix of pork,red meat, rodents, poultry, wild game, and Mazuri crocodilian pellets.
17.
How far in advance should we reserve an event? People vary in this regard. Some plan well in
advance,some wait till the last minute. The sooner you call the more likelyhood you'll get the date and time you want.
We try to accomadate everyone as a childs birthday only happens once a year. It never hurts to call and ask!
