Crocodile Bank
If you want spot various species of crocodiles, plan an excursion to Crocodile Bank located about 40 kilometers from Chennai near Mahabalipuram heritage site. It is a sanctuary of the reptiles founded by Romulus Whitaker in 1976 to preserve mainly three types of reptile namely-Mugger-Crocodylus Paluster, the Gharial - Gavialis Gangeticus, and the saltwater Crocodile - Crocodylus Poros. This bank spreads an area of 3.2 hectares and home to various species of reptiles.
At first there were only 30 crocodiles in the park which are now grown to more than 2400 reptiles of various species. The main attraction of the park is the Crocodile Conservation Centre which is the largest breeding centre of crocodiles in India. Some African species of crocodiles are also found here.
The Snake Farm of the bank will thrill a tourist; one will mesmerize to see the anti-venom extraction process. Crocodile Bank is also a scientific research centre of the biology of crocodiles, turtles and monitors lizards. Now it is home to some endangered species of turtles and snakes including the King Cobra. Though the animals are confined here in boundaries, yet one will see their habitat in natural environment.
