Opened in 2007, this sanctuary for reptiles and amphibians was built by David Critchlow to house and care for unwanted or injured animals. And when you see the hundreds of alligators in particular, you have to question the sense of people who buy them as pets. The animals come from all over the country through adoption, donation, rescue, or from other institutions. And none of these residents are bought, sold, or traded. They spend the rest of their lives here.
Some of the stories of how the animal was acquired are displayed.
There are also a few animals on exhibit inside the gift shop.
The staff is super friendly and informative and they will provide a guided tour if you would like one. Otherwise, you are free to wander at will around this remarkable place. If you want to hold or feed an animal, there's an additional cost, which is understandable when you consider the cost of caring for them 24/7, year round. The sanctuary is closed in the winter and the animals live in heated, adapted shipping containers on the premises. They'll re-open sometime in April so check them out next spring!
On a side note, just south of the sanctuary we found the lovely John Wilson Park.
Thanks for a lovely visit, Athens!
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