There are nine genera and 28 species of crocodiles worldwide, some of which are now extinct. Among the four species found in Myanmar, one, the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), is bred at the Thakayta Crocodile Farm in the Industrial Zone of Thakayta Township, Yangon. The farm is open to domestic and international tourists for educational tours daily.

The Thakayta Crocodile Farm was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic but reopened on 29 October 2024. Since then, both local and foreign tourists have been visiting the farm.

“Although the farm has only recently reopened, we’ve seen a steady stream of tourists, including some foreigners, to study. Our staff provides daily services, including showing visitors the crocodiles, feeding them as part of a charity initiative, and ensuring the safety of all visitors. We tend to see more tourists during holidays.

For instance, a Russian tourist visited yesterday. We even have foreign tourists visiting when the farm is technically closed, so we’ve ensured everything is prepared for both domestic and international visitors during the tourist season. We welcome everyone to come and see the saltwater crocodiles, Crocodylus porosus, which are released into the natural water from hatching,” said Daw Myat Khine Mar, Deputy Director in charge of the Crocodile Farm and the Water Quality Inspection and Freshwater Research Branch.

The Thakayta Crocodile Farm is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists. Chinese visitors particularly regard crocodiles as a symbol of good luck. The entrance fee is K5,000 for foreign visitor, K1,000 for Myanmar adult, and free for under-five children.

Saltwater is crucial for the survival of crocodiles, especially for raising them from eggs to hatchlings. The farm has several breeding tanks: Tank 1 houses crocodiles measuring one to three feet, Tank 2 holds crocodiles measuring four to six feet, and Tank 3 is home to crocodiles over seven feet long. A female crocodile typically lays between 20 and 70 eggs. By 2024, the farm had raised 631 crocodiles, including nine hatchlings, and currently houses 622 adult crocodiles. The farm’s largest saltwater crocodile ‘Ngamoeyeik’ is on the endangered species list under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Thitsa (MNA)/TKO

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