Giant crocodile, kept as pet for 46 years, relocated in Kajang
Decades-long companionship ends
KAJANG – A saltwater crocodile weighing over 300 kilogrammes (kg), which had been kept as a pet for the past 46 years at a residence in Taman Country Heights here, has been successfully relocated.
The relocation operation was carried out by a team from the Selangor Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) in cooperation with the National Wildlife Rescue Centre (NWRC) on April 13.
Perhilitan Selangor Director, Wan Mohd Adib Wan Mohd Yusoh said the relocation process began at 9.30am after the owner voluntarily handed over the crocodile out of concern for the animal’s welfare and in support of long-term conservation efforts.
According to him, the crocodile was relocated directly from a pond located within the owner’s property.
“This saltwater crocodile is estimated to be about four metres long and weighs over 300kg.
“Based on information from the owner, the female crocodile had been kept for more than 46 years,” he told Sinar on Tuesday.
He said the relocation process took about an hour to capture, restrain and lift the crocodile onto the department’s vehicle before being transported to the Paya Indah Wetlands for observation and habitat acclimatisation.
He clarified that the reptile’s owner had a valid special permit from Perhilitan and the voluntary surrender was made as the owner believed placing the crocodile in a conservation centre would be more suitable for its care and long-term survival.
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