size: 5405KB - Crocodile Specialist Group

Draft Agenda for CSG Steering Committee Meeting (Version 2) 

Goldi Sands Hotel, Negombo, Sri Lanka 

20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

SC.1.0 

1. Executive Reports 

1.1. Chairman’s Report (Grahame Webb) 

1.2. Minutes & Actions from SC Meeting, Manila, Philippines, May 2012 (Tom Dacey) 

1.3. Executive Officer’s Report (Tom Dacey) 

1.4. Financial Report (Tom Dacey) 

1.4.1. Financial Report as at 31 December 2012 

1.4.2. Financial Report as at 31 March 2013 

1.5. International Association of Crocodile Specialists Incorporated (Tom Dacey) 

2. Regional Reports 

2.1. South and East Africa (Alison Leslie and Christine Lippai) 

2.1.1. Lake Chamo, Ethiopia (Grahame Webb) 

2.2. West and Central Africa (Samuel Martin) 

2.3. East and Southeast Asia (Toshinori Tsubouchi, with input from Jiang Hongxing, Tom Dacey and others) 

2.4. North America (Ruth Elsey and Allan Woodward) 

2.5. South Asia and Iran (Anslem de Silva, with inout from Regional Vice Chairs) 

2.6. Australia and Oceania (Charlie Manolis) 

2.7. Europe (Jon Hutton, Dietrich Jelden, Samuel Martin and Ralf Sommerlad) 

2.8. Latin America and the Caribbean (Alejandro Larriera, Regional Chairs and others) 

2.8.1. Jamaica Crocodile Conservation (Perran Ross) 

3. Review Updates 

3.1. Vietnam (Thai Truyen) 

3.2. Cambodia (Heng Sovannara) 

3.3. Madagascar (see CITES report, Agenda Item 4.1) 

3.4. Cuba - No Report 

3.5. First Species (C. siamensis) Meeting, Bangkok - Second Progress Report (Tom Dacey) 

3.6. Lao PDR (Tom Dacey) 

4. Thematic Group Reports 

4.1. CITES (Charlie Manolis, Tom Dacey, Hank Jenkins) 

4.2. Industry (Don Ashley) 

4.3. Trade Monitoring (John Caldwell) 

4.4. Veterinary Science (Paolo Martelli) 

4.5. Zoos (Kent Vliet) 

4.6. Community Education (Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz) 

4.7. General Research (Val Lance) 

5. IUCN-Red List (Perran Ross) 

6. Task Force/Working Group Reports 

6.1. Tomistoma Task Force (Bruce Shwedick) 

6.2. Human-Crocodile Conflict Working Group (Allan Woodward) 

6.3. Siamese Crocodile Task Force (Parntep Ratanakorn & Yosapong Temsiripong) 

6.4. Capacity Building Manual Working Group (Ashley Pearce and Charlie Manolis) 

6.5 Space and Husbandry Standards for Captive Crocodilians (Kent Vliet) 

7. General Business 

7.1. Student Research Assistance Scheme (Tom Dacey) 

8. 23rd CSG Working Meeting, Louisiana, USA, 26-30 May 2014. (Mark Merchant)

Crocodile Specialist Group Steering Committee Meeting 


20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC.1.1 

Information Item 

Chairman’s Report 

Welcome 

Apologies: 

Steering Committee: Dietrich Jelden, Toshinori Tsubouchi, Choo Hoo Giam, Nao Thuok, Eric 

Langlet, Alfonso Llobet, Carlos Pina, Hesiquio Benitez Dias, Miryam Anaya, Luis Bassetti, Sergio 

Medrano-Bitar, Roberto Soberon, Bernado Ortiz, Jon Hutton, Ralf Sommerlad, Ruth Elsey, Allan 

Woodward, Noel Kinler, Frank Mazzotti, Tomme Young, Hank Jenkins, Yoshio Kaneko, James 

McGegor, Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz, Val Lance 

Other CSG members: Patrick Aust, Manuel Muñiz, María de la Paz López Vázquez, Rafael 

Antelo, Rob Stuebing, Bienvenu ADJE Chabi, Laura Brant, Gordon Grigg 

Report on Activities: 

Loss of long-serving CSG members, Saul Elias Gutierrez Eljuri (Venezuela), Keiran McNamara 

(Australia). Also, Alfonse Mava (Papue New Guinea) who had been involved in the crocodile 

program there for some 30 years. 

Steering Committee changes 

Anslem de Silva - Regional Chairman, South Asia & Iran (SA&I) Region 

Ruchira Somaweera, Maheshwa Dhakal, Raju Vyas - Vice Chairs, SA&I Region 

Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz - Vice Chair, Community Education Group 

Parntep Ratanakorn - Chairman, Siamese Crocodile Task Force 

Simone Comparini - Deputy Vice Chair, Industry Group 

Allan Woodward - Chair, Human-Crocodile Working Group 

Meetings 

• CITES Standing Committee (SC62), Geneva, Switzerland, 23-27 July 2012 

• HCC Symposium, Bangalore, India, August 2012 

• American Crocodile (C. acutus) Workshop, Homestead FL, USA, 15 February 2013 

• CSG-TTF “A Night for the Crocs”, Zoo Miami, USA, 16 February 2013. 

• CITES Standing Committee (SC63), Bangkok, Thailand, 2 March 2013 

• CITES CoP16, Bangkok, Thailand, 3-14 March 2013 

Reviews 

• Situation in Madagascar continues to be monitored, while trade ban continues. 

• Executive Officer, Tom Dacey, undertook a review in Lao PDR, December 2012.

General 

• Phil Wilkinson received The Order of the Silver Crescent, South Carolina’s highest award, in 

January 2013. 

Prepared by: 

Grahame Webb, Chairman 

Date prepared: 28 April 2013




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 


Minutes and Actions from CSGSC Meeting, Manila, Philippines, 21 May 2012 

1. Opening 

Dr. Ana Labrador, Deputy Director, National Museum of the Philippines, welcomed 

participants to the meeting. 

Steering Committee members present: Grahame Webb, Dietrich Jelden, Alejandro, Larriera, 

Tom Dacey, Perran Ross, Charlie Manolis, Alvaro Velasco, Samuel Martin, Allan Woodward, 

John Caldwell, Paolo Martelli, Val Lance, Dr. Giam, Yosapong Temsiripong, Hesiquio Benitez 

Diaz, Val Lance. 

Observers present: Heng Sovannara, Luon Nam, Adam Britton, Mark Bezuijen, Thongsavath 

Oudomxay, Chanthone Phothitay, C.H.Giam, Cayetano Pomares, Giovanna Webb, Margaret 

Tierney, Roberto P. Puentespina, Bjorn Limketkai, Robby McLeod, Leo Lapie, Gregory 

Lacoste, Marcos Coutinho, Steve Conners, Antinio Castro, James Chan, Vicente Mercado, 

Michael Vincent Cruz, Yusuke Fukuda, Maria De La Paz Lopez, Manuel Muniz, M.M.Imran, 

Anslem De Silva, Godfrid Solmu, Matt Plummer, Geoff McClure, Principe Guillermo, Pablo 

Siroski, Csaba Geczy, Kristian Robert Pahl, Arvin Diesmos,James Alifang, Matthew Brian, 

Brian Jeffery, Rebbeca Muscher, Mark Merchant, Marissa Tellez, Alex Meurer, Joe 

Wasilewski, Oswald Bracken Tisen, Christopher Kri Ubang, Rambli Bin Ahmad, Simone 

Comparini, Terry Cullen, Heintje Limketkai, Daniel Barlis, Buddy Chan, Choomjet 

Karnjanakesorn, Smith Thummachua, Bundit Kullavanijaya, Kumthon Suaroon, Yosapong 

Temsiripong. 

Apologies received from Steering Committee members: Janaki Lenin, Rom Whitaker, Harry 

Messel, Ralf Sommerlad, Carlos Piña, James MacGregor, Richard Fergusson, Ruth Elsey, Don 

Ashley, Yochi Takehara, Hank Jenkins, Alison Leslie, C.H. Koh, Fritz Huchzermeyer, Thomas 

Rainwater, Bernardo Ortiz-von Halle, Alfonso Llobet, Christine Lippai, Kent Vliet, Tomme 

Young, Asghar Mobaraki, Luís Bassetti, Phil Wilkinson, Jiang Hongxing, Frank Mazzotti 

Apologies received from other CSG members: Phil Steel, Ricky Taylor, Iqbal Zuberi, Rob 

Stuebing, Christopher Tracy, Zilca Campos, Paul Bodnar, Patrick Aust, Obdulio Menghi, Peter 

Brazaitis, Craig Franklin, Christopher Moran, John and Lillian Lever, Pushpa Palaniappan, 

Juan Rafael Bolaños Montero, Ernesto O. Boede, Ruchira Somaweera, Hannes Botha, Rafael 

Antelo, Pedro G. Vasquez Ruesta, Agata Staniewicz, Chris Kofron, A.M. Riyas Ahamed, Joe 

Abene, Keith Christian, Chris Peberdy, Paul Weldon, Craig Franklin, Roldán de Sola, Manori 

Gunawardena, R.J. Rao, Sally Isberg, Massimo De Luca, Rakotondrazafy Andry Malalan'Ny 

Aina, Frank Brandstätter, Subir Chowfin, Attaullah Pandrani, Timothy P. Scott, Gisela Poletta, 

Alba Imhof, Gordon Grigg, Rob Gandola, Melina Simoncini, Parntep Ratanakorn, Pierre 

Charruau, Virginia Parachú Marcó, Juan F. Dueñas-Serrano, Patrica Amavet, Iván Palacios, 

Somkiat Wannawatanapong, Harry Dutton, Dwayne Carbonneau, Sergio Alejandro Balaguera-

Reina, Robert Godshalk, Samuel Furrer, Samir Whitaker, Engkamat Lading, Patrick Delaney, 

Gonzalo Fernández Hoyo, Tomas Waller, Abdul Aleem Chaudhry, Francisco Villamarín, 

Arnold Brunell, Mitch Eaton, Ian Games, Laura Brandt, Cathy Shilton, Choalin Wang, 

Xiaobing Wu, Ana Maria Trelancia, Sonia Canto, Fabian Schmidt, Boyd Simpson, Christy 

Wilkinson, David Wilken, Blair Hayman, Xander Combrink, Mushtaq Ahmed. 

1.1. Chairman’s Report 

The Chairman welcomed everyone and thanked the workshop organisers, including 

representatives of Government, academic institutions, industry and NGOs. He drew 

attention to the large agenda and indicated that agenda papers would be taken as read and 

opened for discussion and questions. He also drew attention to the activities of the CSG 

over the past two years and the forthcoming years, highlighting: 

• Nine CSG members who had passed away since the last Working Meeting. A minute 

of silence was held in remembrance. 

• Various meetings in which the CSG had been involved over the past 2 years. 

• The situation in Madagascar, which necessitated a trade suspension recommended by 

the CITES Standing Committee. 

• Deliberations of the Executive Committee meeting held on 20 May 2012, which are 

included in the agenda for this meeting. 

1.2. Minutes and Actions from CSG SC Meeting, Manaus, Brazil (2010) 

All outstanding actions from the Manaus meeting were reported in the minutes or 

addressed as separate agenda items in the papers of the meeting. Some discussion was 

held on: 

• Proceedings of the Manaus Working Meeting have now been collated and will be 

published as an electronic document on the CSG website. 

• Membership of the CSG and the Steering Committee will be reviewed following the 

IUCN World Conservation Congress in September 2012. 

• The need to encourage new and younger member into the CSG. Terry Cullen 

suggested that we could establish a mentoring program. 

Action 1. The Chairman requested Terry Cullen to provide the Executive Officer with 

some notes on his idea for a mentoring program. 

Completion of actions from the last CSG SC meeting was noted. 

1.3. Executive Officer’s Report 

The Executive Officer highlighted: 

• CSG membership of 450 (60 countries) 

• Only a 50% response to the CSG questionnaire 

• Reviews and meetings 

• SRAS (Agenda item SC.7.1) - Since 2009, there had been 51 applications; 48 

approved, 3 under consideration; and 26 reports received. All details are now available 

on the CSG website 

The report was noted.

1.4. Financial Report 

The financial report highlighted the current balance of around $US539,998. 

TTF Funds - The Chairman outlined the issues involved with the Lake Mesangat proposal 

in East Kalimantan. The CSG is proposing to send a high level delegation (G. Webb and 

D. Jelden) to East Kalimantan to meet with the appropriate people in the local 

government and industry. 

Chinese alligator Funds - the Executive Officer advised that there had not been any 

transactions for over 7 years. It was suggested that anyone with ideas on what might be 

done with the funds should pass them on to Perran Ross to collate for the CSG 

Executive’s consideration. One idea which evolved from the discussion was to use the 

funds to revise the Chinese alligator section of the CSG’s action plan. 

The Chairman thanked Charlie Manolis and Tom Dacey for their efforts in controlling the 

CSG finances and providing the regular financial reports to members. 

The reports were noted. 

1.5. International Association of Crocodile Specialists Inc. 

The Chairman gave an outline of the establishment of IACS as a separate legal identity to 

manage the finances of the CSG. The report was noted. 

2. Regional Reports 

2.1. South and East Africa 

The Regional Chairman for South and East Africa, Rich Fergusson, was unable to attend 

the meeting. His report highlighted recent activities in: 

• South Africa - decline in Loskop Dam population still being monitored 

• Botswana - increase in Human-Crocodile Conflict with the increased annual floods 

• Mozambique - crocodile management plan has been approved, but still not 

effectively implemented. Current CITES export quota for wild skins should be reexamined 

• Namibia - management plan due to be finalised by July 2012 

• Zimbabwe - only 19 active producers remaining 

• Malawi - Agenda item 8.2 refers 

• Tanzania - Protected populations remain healthy 

• Kenya - No major changes recently 

• Congo DR - Joe Wasilewski provided an overview of his recent activities 

• Sudan - with the advent of South Sudan as a separate identity, surveys of the Nile 

and Sudd could eventuate 

• Egypt - situation on hold due to internal difficulties. 

Action 2. Joe Wasilewski will prepare a proposal for CSG consideration on assisting the 

Congo project. 

The report was noted.

2.2. West and Central Africa Regional Report 

Samuel Martin addressed the report, highlighting: 

• Difficulties of being able to operate in some countries due to civil unrest 

• Strategic document, prepared by Dietrich Jelden, Samuel Martin and Christine 

Lippai, had been distributed to various wildlife ministries in the West African region 

by the Ministry of Environment of Burkina Faso 

• NGO, SOS Crocodiles of la Ferme aux Crocodiles (France), continues to be involved 

in several projects in Burkina Faso, Benin and Niger 

Matt Shirley gave a brief overview of the work he has been doing in Ivory Coast and 

Gabon. The report was noted. 

2.3. East and Southeast Asia Regional Report 

Neither of the Regional Chairs was able to attend the meeting. The report collated by 

CSG Executive Officer from various sources highlighted: 

• International Crocodile Conference held in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia (October 

2011) 

• CSG Regional Species meeting held in Bangkok, Thailand (April 2011) 

• East Kalimantan reports on C. porosus, Tomistoma and C. siamensis 

• Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme reports by FFI 

• China sub-regional report on Chinese Alligator 

• Recent update compiled by Mark Bezuijen 

Yosapong Tempsrirpong outlined the activities included in the report from Thailand 

Fisheries Department (SC.3.5 Attachment “D” refers). 

Heng Sovannara provided an overview report on some recent Cambodian activities: 

• Siamese crocodile conservation requires an inter agency approach as there are many 

national government agencies with overlapping jurisdictions; 

• National biological Strategies and Action Plans (being prepared under the national 

obligation of signatories to CBD) are only the first step - species conservation needs 

to be embedded in annual government work plans and budgets down to local level 

(country/district/village levels). 

Chanthone Phothitay provided an overview report on some recent activities within Laos 

PDR: 

• Government and WCS have commenced a Community-based Management Project, 

funded by the Mining Metro Group (MMG), which builds upon previous efforts; 

• In 2011 one wild nest, with 27 eggs, was found. Eggs incubated by Ban Kuen Zoo 

and 20 hatchlings achieved. These animals have been scute marked and will be 

released in a head-start program at the end of 2012/2013. 

• Through community workshops, community Regulations for crocodile conservation 

developed in 9 villages in the Xe Champone and Xe Xangxoy Rivers. Crocodile 

conservation committees have been created, with representatives who co-ordinate 

village involvement. Appropriate public awareness signs have also been erected in 

the various crocodile conservation areas. 

Oswald Bracken Tisen provided an overview of the recent international Crocodile 

Conference held in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia (October 2011), where the possible 

downlisting of C. porosus in Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei was discussed.

2.4. North America regional Report 

The report, provided by the Regional Chairs, Ruth Elsey and Allan Woodward, and 

presented by Allan Woodward, highlighted: 

• Status of American Crocodile 

• Skin production figures 

• Various State reports 

• Reclassification Issues: 

- Caiman latirostris - comments period closed 5 March 2012. USFWS does not have 

a firm date for publishing the final rule. 

- Crocodylus moreletti - USFWS announced its finding to remove C. moreletii from 

the US list of Endangered & Threatened Species and the final rule is expected to be 

published soon. 

The Chairman thanked Ruth Elsey and Allan Woodward for the excellent report 

presented. The report was noted. 

2.5. South Asia and Iran Regional Report 

The report provided by Janaki Lenin, who was unable to attend the meeting, highlighted 

current activities in: 

• India 

o Gharial - establishment of National Tri-State Chambal Sanctuary Management and 

Coordination Committee (NTRIS-CASMACC) 

o Saltwater crocodile survey undertaken in Sundarban part of India 

• Sri Lanka - Ruchira Somweera and Anslem de Silva received a CBOT grant to study 

“Usage of traditional knowledge to minimize human-crocodile conflict and conserve 

crocodiles in Sri Lanka”. Two new crocodile facilities have been established 

• Nepal - satellite telemetry study being undertaken 

• Iran - first captive breeding and rearing facility established for Muggers 

• Pakistan - are working in conjunction with Iran 

• Bangladesh 

o Gharial surveys undertaken in the Padma and Jamuna Rivers, November 2009- 

October 2010 and again November 2010-October 2011. 

o Mugger - HCC incidents 

o Saltwater crocodile population appears to be declining 

o Commercial activities - three farms now operating 

The report was noted. 

2.6. Australia and Oceania 

The report provided by Regional Chairman Charlie Manolis, highlighted: 

• Northern Territory - 

o Cane toads are having a major impact and causing declines in some C. johnstoni 

populations (eg Victoria and Daly Rivers); 

o Review of management program for C. porosus to be completed by end of 2012 

o Management program for C. johnstoni was approved on 23 December 2010 

• Queensland - a collaborative research project is exploring the “science” behind 

harvesting crocodile eggs in Cape York. 

• Western Australia - arrival of cane toads does not appear to have caused the high 

mortalties of C. johnstoni that have been reported elsewhere in the Northern Territory.

• Papua New Guinea - crocodile farming industry continues to focus on C. porosus, 

although wild harvesting involves both C. porosus and C. novaeguineae. Population 

monitoring shows increasing populations of both species 

• East Timor - The East Timorese Government recently formed a Crocodile Task Force 

to improve knowledge and experience in managing crocodile populations. HCC 

continues to be an issue. 

• Solomon Islands - HCC continues to be a major issue and creating negative attitudes 

towards crocodiles. 


2.7. Europe 

Vice Chairman, Samuel Martin, presented the report, highlighting: 

o Ex-situ conservation through zoos 

o Europe is active in supporting several crocodile conservation initiatives both 

logistically and financially overseas 

o French company, Lacoste, are now supporting significantly 5 major separate projects 

around the world 

The Chairman gave an overview of the involvement of the Lacoste Foundation in 

crocodile conservation in the framework of their ‘Save our Logo” initiative, operating 

through the French NGO, FDB. 

2.8. Latin America and Caribbean Regional Report 

The report was presented by Deputy Chairman Alejandro Larriera, who thanked all 

representatives from LA&C region for their inputs into the regional report and offered an 

apology for all those who were unable to attend the meeting. The report was noted. 

2.8.1. Crocodile conservation in Jamaica 

Perran Ross presented the paper and the issues discussed included: 

• Although that contact had been made with new people in Jamaica, the 

situation has not changed in 30 years. Bryon Wilson is the main contact 

person; 

• Habitat is being lost and there has been an increase in the killing of C. acutus 

crocodiles and there is real fear that the population may be lost; Need to 

encourage locals to increase the pressure on government to protect at least a 

couple of core areas; and, 

• Need for a better public education program. 

Action 3. The chairman requested Perran Ross, Allan Woodward and Frank 

Mazzotti to review the situation and advise who will be able to advance the 

situation. 

A report was provided (see Manila Proceedings). A workshop on American 

Crocodile was held in Miami on 15 February 2013, which was attended by 

representatives from four countries, including Jamaica and USA (see SC.2.8.1).

3.1. Vietnam Review 

There was no specific report from Vietnam and no representative from Vietnam present 

at the meeting. However, the Vietnam report in respect of Agenda item SC.3.5 - 

Attachment “B” addressed some of the general issues. 

3.2. Cambodia: Update on Implementation of Recommendations 

The report from Fisheries Administration of Cambodia on implementation of the 

Recommendations of the 2005 CSG review was included in the agenda papers. The 

Chairman advised that of the 31 Recommendations, 6 have been completed, 4 require 

some further clarification and the rest have not been satisfactorily resolved to date. Heng 

Sovannara advised that the lack of resources is a major problem in the implementation of 

the Recommendations. 

Action 4. CSG will review the report and achievements, with the view of writing to 

Cambodian Director General of Fisheries, Dr. Nao Thuok, seeking advice and 

clarification on several of the issues. 

Updated report at SC.3.2. refers. 

3.3. Madagascar Review 

Refer to SC.4.1 - CITES Report. The Chairman advised that Madagascar had become a 

very complicated issue in the context of CITES. Based on the recommendations of the 

CITES Standing Committee, a trade suspension had been imposed until such time that 

Madagascar can comply with 9 recommendations. To date, Madagascar has not met these 

requirements and such trade bans as for example by the EU remain in place. Recently, 

Madagascar has begun to import C. niloticus skins from South Africa, manufacture them 

into products and then re-export them. Although that this would appear to be contrary to 

the trade suspension, the CITES Secretariat has advised that such is not the case. Dietrich 

Jelden advised that this is a CITES compliance issue which will discussed further at the 

62 nd meeting of the CITES Standing Committee meeting in July 2012. 

Action 5. CSG to write to CITES Secretariat, expressing its views on the import and reexport 

of South African skins and products respectively through Madagascar. The letter 

should request that it be electronically available on the CITES website as a SC62 

‘Information document’. 

A letter was sent to John Scanlon (Director General, CITES) on 20 June 2012. Issue 

discussed at SC62 and CoP16 (SC.4.1 refers). 

3.4. Cuba Review 

Whilst the report provided by LAC Regional Vice Chairman Roberto Soberon indicated 

that some progress is being achieved, it was noted that most of the important 

recommendations are yet to be implemented. As Roberto Soberon has now moved to 

Spain, the CSG Executive appointed Manuel Tabet as the LA&C Vice Chair. The report 

was noted.

3.5. First Species (C. siamensis) Meeting, Bangkok - Progress Report 

The Executive Officer gave a brief overview of the recommendations from the C. 

siamensis meeting held in Bangkok (April 20110), indicating that the relevant 

recommendations had been forwarded to the respective Range States for their 

consideration and advice. Responses had been received from Cambodia (Attachment 

“A”), Vietnam (Attachment “B”), Dietrich Jelden (Attachment “C”) and Thailand 

(Attachment “D”). Yosapong Temsrirpong gave an overview of the response provided by 

Thailand’s Fisheries Department. It was noted that there had been made some progress on 

the compliance and enhanced co-operation issues between China and its neighbouring 

Range States. Similarly Cambodia and Vietnam were now discussing illegal cross border 

trade. 

Action 6. The Chairman indicated that the CSG would seek updated reports from the 

outstanding respondents (Indonesia, Cambodia, Lao PDR) and attempt to progress the 

recommended actions from the Bangkok meeting. 

Updated reports requested, but never received. CSG Executive Officer visited Lao PDR 

in December 2013 (SC.3.6 refers). 

Action 7. Yosapong Temsrirpong was requested to convene a C. siamensis Working 

Group to discuss what might be possible in respect of the common recommendations on 

Compliance, Capacity Building, etc., and report back to the meeting. 

A report was provided (see Manila Proceedings). The establishment of a Siamese 

Crocodile Task Force was approved and Dr. Parnep Ratanakorn appointed Chair (SC.6.3 

refers). 


4. Thematic Vice Chair Reports 

4.1. CITES 

The report was briefly introduced by the Chairman, in the absence of “Hank” Jenkins, 

highlighting: 

• Ranching and trade in ranched specimens of species transferred from Appendix I to 

Appendix II (Decision 15.51), and the history behind the various CITES Resolutions 

- Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15), Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15) and 

Resolution Conf. 9.20 (Rev.). The issue is quite complicated and was referred back 

to the Animals Committee (AC) for consideration and recommendation. CSG 

provided an information document (AC 25 Inf. 9 on ‘Ranching and trade in ranched 

specimens of species transferred from Appendix I to Appendix II 

‘http://www.cites.org/eng/com/ac/25/index.php) to recommending that the two 

systems should remain totally separate and this was accepted by the AC 

• Madagascar - Discussed previously under SC.3.3 Madagascar Review; 

• C. johnstoni - will as the correct nomenclature be formally accepted by CITES; 

• C. niloticus - awaiting the outcome of the process for species recognition; 

• Malawi - Refer SC.8.2 

• Compliance with CITES

4.2. Industry Report 

Charlie Manolis addressed the report provided by Vice Chair Don Ashley. 

Action 8. Establish a Working Group (with Charlie Manolis as Chair) to review the 

issues raised in the report and report back at the end of the Working Meeting. 

The Industry Group met and a report provided (see Manila Proceedings). 

4.3. Trade Monitoring 

John Caldwell presented the report, highlighting: the source of the trade data; outstanding 

CITES reports and preparation of IACTS reports. The report was noted. 

4.4. Veterinary Science 

Dr. Paolo Martelli presented the report, highlighting: 

• The purpose of the Group; 

• Ongoing problem of passive members; 

• Ongoing communications within the Group 

• Membership is now 13 members 

• Vet Science documents available to go onto the new CSG website 

• Concern over the animal welfare issue, particularly electro-stunning and individual 

pens 

The animal welfare issue was referred to a Working Group to report back before the end 

of the meeting. 

4.5. Zoos and Community Education 

Vice Chair Kent Vliet was unable to attend the meeting; however the Executive gave an 

overview of the report highlighting: 

• Need for increased communication and liaison within the group 

• Activities of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) 

• Active groups in Europe, Australia and North America 

• Space and husbandry standards for captive crocodilians. This issue was also 

discussed at the CSG Executive meeting the previous day 

• Identification of community education programs in USA and Costa Rica 

Action 9. Establish a Working Group (comprising Kent Vliet, Ralf Sommerlad and Rene 

Hedeggard) to look at the issue of “Space and husbandry standards for captive 

crocodilians” and report back to the CSG Executive. 

Kent Vliet asked to establish a Working Group, including Ralf Sommerlad and Rene 

Hedegaard (SC.6.5 refers). 

Action 10. Establish a separate CSG Community Education Group, under the 

chairmanship of Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz (Colombia). 

A Community Education Group was established. Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz accepted the 

position of Chair (SC.4.6 refers).

4.6. General Research 

Vice Chair Val Lance gave a verbal report highlighting that science is flourishing in the 

crocodilian world. A recent internet search reveals some 1,500 articles available online. 

On a sadder note, Val reported that the proposed Symposium on Crocodylia had been 

turned down twice, so he would no longer pursue this issue. The report was noted. 

4.7. Legal Affairs 

The report from Vice Chair, Tomme Young, was noted. 

5. IUCN Red List Authority 

Perran Ross advised that Red List Assessments had been completed for Crocodylus acutus, C. 

moreletii, C. palustris and C. siamensis and these were now ready for circulation to CSG 

members for comment prior endorsement by the Chairman and inclusion on the website. 

Crocodylus mindorensis would be completed during the course of this Working Meeting, only 

leaving Tomistoma schlegelii and Osteolaemus tetraspis to be completed later. It was agreed 

that the assessment of C. niloticus could be deferred. 

Action 11. Completed Red List Assessments to be circulated to CSG members for comments 

prior to endorsement by CSG Chair and inclusion on the CSG website. 

A specific Red List page was placed on the website, which allowed the draft assessments to be 

made available for comment prior to endorsement by the Chair (SC.5. refers). 

6. Task Force/Working Group Reports 

6.1. Tomistoma Task Force 

The report had been prepared by the TTF Chair, Bruce Shwedick, who was unable to 

attend the meeting, so Colin Stevenson reported on his behalf, highlighting: 

• Funding support received from Virginia aquarium and Miami Metro Zoo 

• Activities and reports from Agata Staniewicz on her research in the Mesangat Lake 

area of East Kalimantan 

• Deferral of the proposed TTF Workshop 

• Work continuing on the Tomistoma Husbandry Manual 

TTF Working Group met during Working Meeting and report provided by Colin 

Stevenson. The report was noted. 

6.2. Human-Crocodile Conflict 

HCC Chairman Richard Fergusson was unable to attend the meeting but provided a 

written report. A working group was established under chairmanship of Charlie Manolis 

to discuss progress being made by the group. The report was noted.

7. General Business 

7.1. Student Research Assistance Scheme 

The report presented by the Executive Officer Tom Dacey highlighted: 

• 51 applications received since 2009, 48 approved, 3 applications under consideration 

and 26 reports received. 

• Details of successful applications are now on the CSG website, including final 

reports as they are received. 


7.2. CSG Website 

Charlie Manolis advised that the new CSG website is up and running. The report was 

noted. 

7.3. Castillo Award 

The Chairman advised that the Executive had considered several nominations and the 

successful recipient would be announced at the closing dinner on the evening of 25 May 

2012. 

The Castillo Award was presented to Matthew Shirley. 

8.1. Capacity Building Manual 

The following issues were discussed: 

o CITES Secretariat has advised that they are not in a position to support this proposal. 

o Need to take similar approach as was done for the Action Plans - allocate tasks to 

various members with set deadlines and appoint someone to be the co-ordinator. 

o It might be necessary to employ a co-ordinator to progress and finalise the Manual. 

Action 12. Allan “Woody” Woodward to reconvene the Capacity Building Working 

Group to review the previous Working Group report and report back on how it might be 

developed into a working document. 

The group met, and a report provided (see Manila Proceedings) (SC.6.4 refers). 

Action 13. Advertise for expressions of interest for a CSG Communications Officer, who 

could co-ordinate the finalisation of the proposed Capacity Building Manual. 

Coordination of the Capacity Building Manual continues to be done in-house. 

8.2. Malawi - Implementation of CITES Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15) on 

ranching 

Dietrich Jelden addressed the issue, highlighting the problem of Malawi increasing its 

annual quota from 3000 to 10,000 without any explanation and their failure to submit 

annual returns. 

Action 14. Dietrich Jelden to draft a letter to CITES Secretariat, with a copy to Malawi.

Letter was sent to the CITES Secretariat on 30 May 2012. 

9. Next CSG Working Meeting 

Sri Lanka (Anslem de Silva) and Louisiana (Mark Merchant) made their respective 

presentations. After due consideration of the proposals the Executive decided that: 

- The 22nd CSG Working Meeting will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, (probably May 2013); 

and, 

- The 23rd CSG Working Meeting will be held at McNeese University, Louisiana, USA, in 

May 2014. 

The meeting closed at 1730 h. 

Prepared by: 

Tom Dacey, Executive Officer 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Executive Officers Report 

General 

The Executive Officer (EO) is employed on a part-time basis and is based in Cairns, Queensland, 

Australia. Three or four trips are made to Darwin each year to work more closely with the 

Chairman. The EO’s annual salary of $AUD21,000 (approx. $US21,500) also covers all office and 

the majority of travel expenses. 

Steering Committee Composition 

Current membership of the CSG Steering Committee (SC) is 62 people. The last meeting of SC was 

just prior to the 21st Working Meeting (May 2012). This provided an opportunity to update SC and 

CSG members on changes in the CSG and advise them of proposed activities. 

CSG Membership 

Current CSG membership (covering 60 countries), by region: 

Australia and Oceania 55 

East and Southeast Asia 72 

Europe 51 

Latin America and the Caribbean 114 

North America 97 

South Asia and Iran 62 

South and East Africa 24 

West Africa 11 

Total 486 

CSG Database 

The CSG database is regularly updated with new contact details as they become available. 

However, this is very much dependent on members informing the EO of any changes to their 

contact details, particularly e-mail addresses. 

Regional Offices 

A Regional Office has been established and Latin America and the Caribbean (Argentina). This 

office has been provided with funding (up to 2014) on a needs basis to enable the Regional 

Chairmen to maintain a CSG office and presence in the region. All proposed expenditure must be 

approved by the Chairman. 

The Regional Office in South & East Africa was closed when Richard Fergusson resigned from the 

Regional Chair position. A replacement chair is still being sought. 

The Executive has also agreed to establish a West Africa Regional Office and $US5000 has been 

earmarked for this purpose, if and when required.

Reviews 

Co-ordination was provided for the following CSG review missions, meetings, etc.: 

1. Lao PDR Review, 2-10 December 2012; 

2. CITES CoP16, Bangkok, Thailand, 3-14 March 2013; and, 

4. 22nd CSG Working Meeting, Negombo, Sri Lanka, May 2013 

Executive Officer Travel 

The EO undertook the following travel, largely at his own expense: 

1. Lao PDR Review, December 2012; 

2. Siem Reap, Cambodia, December 2012, discussions with representatives of FFI and the Siem 

Reap Crocodile Farmer’s Association; 

3. Trips to Darwin - October 2012, January and April 2013; and, 

4. Trips to Manila - September 2012, January and March 2013 - Attended a special meeting of 

PAWB and CPPI on revision of the Philippine Crocodile Management Plan (January 2012) and 

the reintroduction of Philippine crocodiles on Siargao Island (March 2013). 

CSG Newsletter 

The CSG Newsletter remains one of the key means of communicating with members and other 

people and organizations interested in crocodilian conservation. Since July 2004, the Newsletter has 

been produced in Darwin. In accordance with the CSG policy, distribution of hard copies of the 

quarterly CSG Newsletter is limited to: CSG donors; CSG Steering Committee members; financial 

subscribers; libraries; and, CITES Scientific and Management Authorities. All CSG members are 

advised by email that the newsletter is available electronically. Other interested 

persons/organizations can receive the Newsletter electronically by accessing and downloading the 

Newsletter from the CSG website. 

Communication 

The main methods of communication within the CSG membership are through e-mail, the CSG 

Newsletter and the CSG website. Regular “internet phone” contact has been established with 

several members through the “Skype” system, and this potentially offers a cost-effective means of 

communication. The CSG website has been re-developed and is now operational. 

Financial Management 

Monthly financial statements from Florida and Darwin are co-ordinated by the EO, and quarterly 

and annual financial statements compiled and sent to SC members. Through the CSG database, 

“Patrons and Donors” are issued an annual letter seeking donations. In 2012, requests were sent to 

around 40 prospective donors. To date this resulted in the receipt of $69,281 from 20 donors (see 

Financial Report, Agenda item SC.1.4). 

Student Research Assistance Scheme 

Since the SRAS commenced in 2009, 58 applications have been approved, and a further 3 are 

currently under review (as of April 2013) (SC.7.1 refers). 

Next CSG meeting 

The 22nd CSG Working meeting is scheduled to be held at the McNeese University, Lake Charles, 

Louisiana). 

Prepared by: 

Tom Dacey, CSG Executive Officer 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Financial Report 


The CSG currently operates its main banking account in Darwin, Australia, managed by IACS 

Treasurer, Charlie Manolis, in consultation with Tom Dacey (CSG Executive Officer and IACS 

Secretary). A minor CSG subsidiary account has been maintained at the University of Florida, and 

is managed by Perran Ross. It is proposed to close this account by 30 June 2013 and transfer the 

remaining balance to the Darwin account. 

Each quarter, the Executive Officer coordinates the financial statements and produces combined 

quarterly financial statements for the IACS and CSG Steering Committee. The IACS operates on a 

cash transaction basis and does not produce Profit and Loss statements as the only accountable 

assets are Cash at Bank. Below is a summary of the annual growth in the bank account balance (in 

$USD) since 2005. 

Date Balance Increase 

30 June 2005 $148,520 - 

30 June 2006 $174,485 $29,965 

30 June 2007 $235,873 $61,388 

30 June 2008 $323,960 $88,087 

30 June 2009 $352,951 $28,992 

30 June 2010 $400,248 $47,297 

30 June 2011 $545,898 $145,650 

30 June 2012 $526,595 -$19,303* 

* Interest on fixed term deposit ($27,461) not received until 

August 2012. 

Of the total cash at bank at 31 March 2013, $AUD511,967.05 (approx. $US527,500) is held in a 

fixed term deposit (IACS), earning 4.9% interest per annum. The balance is held in operating 

accounts in Australia (IACS; Darwin) and USA (CSG; University of Florida). Copies of financial 

reports for 2012 (full year) and for January-March 2013 (part year) are attached at SC.1.4.1 and 

SC.1.4.2. 

There has been very little activity with the Chinese Alligator Fund for the past 8 years. The 

Tomistoma Trust Fund continues to grow due to the fund-raising activities of its members. 

We have continued to manage CSG funds responsibly, with a strong and determined effort to build 

resources, giving us the financial means to act quickly and decisively when we need to. This 

continues to be possible through: the exceptional voluntary effort our members make; the support of 

our donors; WMI continuing to absorb a large amount of the CSG administrative burden; and, the 

Executive Officer working part-time. 

Prepared by: Tom Dacey, Executive Officer 


IACS Financial Summary , Period 1 Jan to 31 December 2012 

Agenda SC 1.4.1 

Darwin Florida Chinese Chinese Tomistoma Tomistoma Total Funds * 

General Account General Account Alligator Fund Alligator Fund Trust Fund Trust Fund 

$AUD $USD $USD $AUD $USD $AUD $USD 

Opening Balance as at 1 Jan 2012 $495,167 3,987 $71 $6,968 $9,483 $30,222 $545,898 

Add: Income $104,273 $0 $0 $0 $2,000 $0 $106,273 

Less: Expenses ($65,577) $0 $0 $0 ($56) $0 ($65,633) 

Closing balance as at 31 Dec 2012 $533,863 $3,987 $71 $6,968 $11,427 $30,222 $586,538 

* $AUD converted to $USD at rate of $1.0000 

Total Australia Account $571,053 $571,053 

Total USA Account $15,485 

Grand Total $586,538 

AUD 

USD 

Note: $499,625.62 AUD is 

invested in a 12 month term deposit 

account, 

earning 4.9% pa.

Chinese Alligator Fund Financial Statement - 1 Jan to 31 December 2012 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

Opening balance as at 1 Jan 2012 $ 71 $6,968 

Add: INCOME 

Transfer from CAF Account, Florida 

Donations: 

Total Donations 

TOTAL INCOME $ - $ - 

Less: EXPENSES: 

Account Charges $ - 

Special Projects $ - $ - 

Publications $ - $ - 

Photographs $ - $ - 

Travel $ - $ - 

Transfer to Darwin account 

TOTAL EXPENSES $ - $ - 

Closing Balance as at 31 December 2012 $ 71 $ 6,968

IACS FINANCIAL STATEMENT - 1 January to 31 December 2012 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

OPENING BALANCE (at 1 Jan 2012) $ 3,987 

$ 495,167 

Transfers from Florida, General Account $ - 

Donations 

Phil Cuncliffe-Steel $ 3,000 

HCP $ 14,948 

COCOT $ 1,347 

Shaun Foggett $ 1,352 

St. Augustines $ 985 

Nao Thuok, Cambiodia $ 510 

Pantera S R L $ 937 

Vic Mercado, Microlabs, Philippines $ 475 

JLIA $ 18,236 

Perran Ross $ 1,200 

Coral Agri-Venture $ 1,123 

George Saputra, IRATA $ 947 

Brevard Zoo, Florida, USA $ 463 

Karin Ebey $ 533 

Keiko matsuda $ 

10 

Heng Long Leather (Singapore) $ 10,000 

Singapore Reptile Traders Assocation $ 2,990 

Mainland Holdings (PNG) $ 4,619 

Yee Tai Leather $ 2,864 

Italhide, Enrico Chiesa $ 2,743 

Subtotal: Donations $ - 

$ 69,281 

Fees - - 

Subtotal: Fees $ - 

$ 

- 

Interest on 12 Month Term Deposit $ 27,462 

Bank Interest on operating account - $ 1,555 

Subtotal: Bank Interest $ - 

$ 29,017 

Newsletter Subscriptions $ 

- 

John de la Bruyere Vincent $ 

60 

Hogler Vetter $ 

55 

Thierry Bordat $ 

55 

Eric Tosso $ 

55 

Gregor Riese $ 

55 

Michael Fontes II $ 125 

Ryan Snyder $ 

55 

Lisa Ortuno $ 

98 

Zoological Society of San Diego Library $ 

55 

Karger Libri $ 

55 

Subtotal: Newsletter Subscriptions $ - 

$668 

Miscellaneous: 

Manila Auction $ 5,307 

Subtotal: Miscellaneous $ - 

$ 5,307 

Special Projects 

Madagascar Workshop (CITES Secretariat) Note 1. 

Subtotal: Special Projects $ - 

$ 

- 

TOTAL INCOME $ - 

$ 104,273

Less: EXPENSES 

Bank Fees & Charges 

Credit Card Fees $ (324) 

Bank Fees & Charges $ (340) 

Wire transfer fees 

Florida Uni - Admin. Fees 

Annual Return - IACS $ 

(15) 

Subtotal: Bank Fees and Charges $ - 

$ (679) 

Freight $ - 

$ 

- 

Subtotal: Freight $ - 

$ 

- 


SRAS - Carol Bogezi $ (1,008.37) 

SRAS Marissa Tellez $ (1,069.37) 

SRAS Victa Batista $ (1,069.37) 

SRAS Thiago Porteinho $ (1,039.61) 

SRAS Thiago Marques $ (1,080.41) 

SRAS Nidia Ardila $ (1,014.65) 

Manila Meeting - Support for Sri Lanka Representative $ (294.21) 

Website Development - K. R. Pahl $ (10,385.00) 

Castillo Award, Matthew Shirley $ (1,014.65) 

SRAS - Dani Rivera $ (1,039) 

SRAS Natalia Rivera $ (1,039) 

SRAS Carlos Valeris $ (1,030) 

SRAS Guillerme Freire $ (1,030) 

SRAS Nidia Ardila $ 

(19) 

SRAS Matt Brien $ (971) 

SRAS Nathalie Kpera $ (998) 

Lao Review $ (2,500) 

Subtotal: Special projects $ - 

$ (26,602) 


Preparation, printing & postage $ (6,900) 

Subtotal: Newsletter $ - 

$ (6,900) 

Salaries 

Executive Officer - T. Dacey - Salary $ (16,000) 

Executive Officer - T. Dacey - Expenses $ (5,000) 

Subtotal: Salaries $ - 

$ (21,000) 

Regional Offices: 

Latin America $ (10,396) 

Africa $ 

- 

Subtotal: Regional Offices $ (10,396) 


Subtotal Miscellaneous 

$ 

- 

Transfers to CSG Darwin Account 

General account 

Sub-total transfers to CSG Darwin Account $ - 

$ 

- 

Transfers to Other accounts: 

Subtotal Other Transfers $ - 

$ 

- 

TOTAL EXPENSES $ - 

$ (65,577) 

Closing Balance as at 31 December 2012 $ 3,987 USD $ 533,863 AUD 

Note 1. Madagascar Project - 

Balance of funding from GTZ ($13,500) still awaited.

TOMISTOMA TASK FORCE - FINANCIALSTATEMENT - 1 Jan to 31 December 2012 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

Opening Balance as at 1 Jan 2012 $ 9,483 $ 30,222 

Add: INCOME 


Donations: 

Mark Swingle, Virginia Aquarium 

Crocodile Conservation Institute, USA $ 2,000 

Sub-Total donations $ 2,000 

Sales 

Sub-Total Sales $- 

TOTAL INCOME $ 2,000 $ - 


Admin Charges - Uni Florida $ (56) $- 

Other - 

TOTAL EXPENSES $ (56) $ - 

Closing Balance as at 31 December 2012 $ 11,427 $ 30,222

IACS Financial Summary , Period 1 Jan - 31 March 2013 

Agenda SC 1.4.2 

Darwin Florida Chinese Chinese Tomistoma Tomistoma Total Funds * 

General Account General Account Alligator Fund Alligator Fund Trust Fund Trust Fund 

$AUD $USD $USD $AUD $USD $AUD $USD 

Opening Balance as at 1 Jan 2013 $533,862 3,987 $71 $6,968 $11,427 $30,222 $586,537 

Add: Income $22,329 $4,150 $0 $0 $3,000 $1,915 $31,394 

Less: Expenses ($17,092) ($6,664) $0 $0 $0 $0 ($23,756) 

Closing balance as at 31 Mar 2013 $539,099 $1,473 $71 $6,968 $14,427 $32,137 $594,175 

* $AUD converted to $USD at rate of $1.0000 

AUD 

USD 

Total Australia Account $578,204 $578,204 

Total USA Account $15,971 

Grand Total $594,175 

Note: $511,967.05 AUD is invested in a 

6 month term deposit account, 

earning 4.9% pa .

IACS FINANCIAL STATEMENT, 1 Jan - 28 February 2013 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

OPENING BALANCE (at 1 Jan 2013) $ 3,987 

$ 533,862 

Transfers from Florida, General Account $ - 

Donations 

Phil Steel $ 3,000 

Ebby Family $ 240 

HCP $ 3,751 

Crocodrilies Park $ 344 

Subtotal: Donations $ - 

$ 7,335 

Fees - - 

Subtotal: Fees $ - 

$ 

- 

Interest on 12 Month Term Deposit $ 12,341 

Bank Interest on operating account $ 343 

Subtotal: Bank Interest $ - 

$ 12,685 

Newsletter Subscriptions $ 

- 

Shaun Foggett $ 

55 

John de la Bruyere Vincent $ 

55 

Subtotal: Newsletter Subscriptions $ - 

$110 


Subtotal: Miscellaneous $ - 

$ 

- 


Madagascar Workshop (CITES Secretariat) $ 2,199 

Note 1. 

Crocodile Conservation Institute/ Jamacia Meeting $ 2,400 

Florida power & Light Inc./ Jamacia meeting $ 1,500 

Clarence Abercrombie (Young Biologists) $ 250 

Subtotal: Special Projects $ 4,150 

$ 2,199 

TOTAL INCOME $ 4,150 

$ 22,329 


Bank Fees & Charges 

Credit Card Fees $ (151) 

Bank Fees & Charges $ 

(64) 

Wire transfer fees 

Florida Uni - Admin. Fees 

Annual Return - IACS 

Subtotal: Bank Fees and Charges $ - 

$ (215) 

Freight $ - 

$ 

- 

Subtotal: Freight $ - 

$ 

- 


Jamacia meeting payments: 

Florida Uni - Admin. Fees $                   (185) 

Travel - B, Wilson $ (667) 

Travel - D. Whyte $ (667)

Travel - R. Miller $ (667) 

Travel - L. Douglas $ (662) 

Keys Country Club - Facility use $ (1,139) 

$ (3,988) 

Perran Ross - Travel Jamacia meeting (to be reimbursed) $ (494) 

Perran Ross - Travel Sri Lanka meeting (to be reimbursed) $ (2,183) 

$ (2,676) 

CREDI-ONG (Manila Auction proceeds) $ (5,275) 

Subtotal: Special projects $ (6,664) 

$ (5,275) 


Preparation, printing & postage $ (2,530) 

Subtotal: Newsletter $ - 

$ (2,530) 

Salaries 

Executive Officer - T. Dacey - Salary $ (2,500) 

Executive Officer - T. Dacey - Expenses $ (8,000) 

Subtotal: Salaries $ - 

$ (10,500) 

Regional Offices: 

Latin America 

$ 

- 

Subtotal: Regional Offices $ - 

$ 

- 


Lao PDR Review $ 1,428 Note 2 

Subtotal Miscellaneous $ - 

$ 1,428 

Transfers to CSG Darwin Account 

General account 

Sub-total transfers to CSG Darwin Account $ - 

$ 

- 

Transfers to Other accounts: 

Subtotal Other Transfers $ - 

$ 

- 

TOTAL EXPENSES $ (6,664) 

$ (17,092) 

Closing Balance as at 31 Mar 2013 $ 1,473 USD $ 539,099 AUD 

Note 1. Madagascar Project - 

Balance of funding from GTZ (8,750 Euros) still awaited. 

Note 2. Lao PDR Review 

Unexpended balance of ($2,500) advance made in 2012 reimbursed.

Chinese Alligator Fund Financial Statement , 1 Jan - 31 Mar 2013 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

Opening balance as at 1 Jan 2013 $ 71 $6,968 

Add: INCOME 


Donations: 

Total Donations 

TOTAL INCOME $ - $ - 

Less: EXPENSES: 

Account Charges $ - $ - 

Special Projects $ - $ - 

Publications $ - $ - 

Photographs $ - $ - 

Travel $ - $ - 

Transfer to Darwin account 


Closing Balance as at 31 Mar 2013 $ 71 $ 6,968

TOMISTOMA TASK FORCE - FINANCIALSTATEMENT, 1 Jan - 31 March 2013 

Florida 

Account 

$USD 

Darwin 

Account 

$AUD 

Opening Balance as at 1 Jan 2013 $ 11,247 $ 30,222 

Add: INCOME 


Donations: 

Virginia Aquarium $ 3,000 $ 1,915 

Sub-Total donations $ 3,000 $ 1,915 

Sales 

Sub-Total Sales $- 

TOTAL INCOME $ 3,000 $ 1,915 


Admin Charges - Uni Florida $- 

Other - 


Closing Balance as at 31 Mar 2013 $ 14,247 $ 32,137



20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



International Association of Crocodile Specialists Inc. 


The Annual General meeting of IACS, held on 7 November 2012: 

(a) endorsed and accepted the Audited Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2012 (Refer 

attachment SC.1.5.1); and. 

(b) Endorsed the re-election of office bearers, as follows- 

• Grahame Webb (Chairman); 

• Dietrich Jelden and Alejandro Larriera (Deputy Chairmen); 

• Tom Dacey (Secretary); 

• Charlie Manolis (Treasurer); and, 

• Perran Ross and Yoichi Takehara (General Members). 

Prepared by: 


Date prepared: 12 February 2013



20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



South and East Africa Regional Report 


SOUTH AFRICA 

Zululand Nile Crocodile Research Program 

A workshop was held in Kruger National Park in March 2013, organised by the Zululand Nile 

Crocodile Research Programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The theme of the workshop 

was “Conservation of Nile Crocodiles and their Habitat” and the event provided an opportunity to 

review progress on research being carried out as well as identify gaps for future research. With 20 

attendees, the topics covered included: 

• Nile Crocodile homing behaviour in the St. Lucia estuarine system 

• Changing the approach of Nile crocodile nesting surveys - a template will be drafted and 

circulated to workshop participants for comparison with current approach. The high rainfall 

experienced during the 2012 breeding/laying period has resulted in a drop in production in 

South Africa and there is currently a strong demand for hatchling crocodiles. 

• Trichinella zimbabwensis in Nile crocodiles: assessment of predilection patterns and influence 

on biochemical parameters 

• Ecosystem change and the Olifants River crocodile mass mortality events and pansteatitis in 

catfish (consequences of nutrient pollution and man-made hydrodynamic change for the Kruger 

National Park) 

• Aspects of crocodile health in KwaZulu Natal 

• Biology and ecotoxicology of Nile crocodiles in the Olifants River system - Hannes Botha 

reports that this project is focusing on contaminant analysis in relation to new work on 

lipidomics and has been an official collaboration between the MTPA, MUSC (Medical 

University of South Carolina) and SANParks since the end of 2012. A second round of 

sampling is scheduled for some time in 2013. In addition, the decline of the Nile crocodile 

population in Loskop Dam continues to be monitored (now in its 12th year); Nile crocodile 

populations in the Blyderivierspoort Dam, the Flag Boshielo Dam and Manyeleti Main Camp 

Dam are also being monitored. Surveys of these populations include population size, structure 

and distribution. Hannes’s research also includes aerial surveys of the Nile crocodile population 

along the entire length of the Olifants River. Further work to study the biology, ecology and 

ecotoxicology of the Nile crocodile population in the Manyeleti Game Reserve is planned but 

still awaits funding confirmation. 

Concern was expressed at the workshop regarding the escape of approximately 15,000 crocodiles 

from the Rakwena Crocodile Farm into the Limpopo River during flooding in January 2013. Whilst 

a recapture operation recovered many of the escapees, more than half of the reptiles are reportedly 

still at large (http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2013/01/24/15-000-crocodiles-on-the-loose-inlimpopo).

The workshop noted that the IUCN Red Data book has highlighted the lack of recent survey data 

and regional status updates for crocodiles in South Africa, with the last national survey carried out 

in the 1980s. A coordinated effort is required in-country to decide upon a year to carry out the next 

national crocodile survey. The workshop also noted the need for an annual workshop in South 

Africa to discuss crocodile research and conservation. 

Other Research 

Drs. Danny Govender and Sam Ferreira report that a project focusing on spatial and temporal 

dynamics of crocodiles in the Lower Olifants and Letaba Rivers of the Kruger National Park is 

continuing. Results suggest that factors driving change in crocodile abundance are perhaps not 

uniform across different reaches in the focal study area. All river reaches studied showed declines in 

the study period 2008-2010 (coinciding with the outbreak of pansteatitis); however, there was a 

non-directional change in the upper reaches of both rivers during the 2010-2012 study period, and a 

continued decline in the Lower Olifants River Gorge Reach. In addition, the decline associated with 

the pansteatitis epidemic is now secondary to other drivers associated with habitat change, 

particularly within the Olifants River Gorge Reach where flooding and associated sedimentation in 

early 2012 severely impacted the rapid/run habitat. Thus, changes in river habitat features may 

restrict resilience and recovery of crocodiles to previous abundances noted in the focal study area. 

Drs. Govender and Ferreira note that the spatial objectives of the Project have been difficult to 

reach because fitting and retaining transmitters in the rocky gorge environment have proven 

challenging, with only limited data sets achieved before transmitters are either destroyed or pulled 

off. Recent techniques have held some promise with two crocodiles now contributing to 7 and 10 

months of continuous data. These two crocodiles, with relatively long data sets, suggest that 

movements do occur, although crocodiles generally remain within a specific locality for some time. 

The recently-fitted transmitters should clarify more of the spatial and movement dynamics of 

crocodiles that could help to explain trends in abundances. 

Research into the causal relationships for the pansteatitis outbreak is also ongoing with a paper 

published in Ecosphere, November 2012 on the alternative feeding hypothesis, purporting silver 

carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), an alien introduced pelagic filter feeding cyprinid, as possibly 

exposing crocodiles to excessive amounts of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) through their 

diets, exhausting tissue antioxidant levels and thereby triggering fat necrosis and inflammation. 

The role of other factors such as environmental pollution has not been ruled out, with a recent 

project registered in the KNP and part of a larger basin wide study (Project partners: SANParks, 

MTPA, MUSC and NIST) to assess crocodile health in the system. The sharptooth catfish (Clarias 

gariepinus), is also showing increased incidence of the pansteatitis disease. The paper is available 

online at http://researchspace.csir.co.za/dspace/bitstream/10204/6247/1/Woodborne1_2012.pdf. 

The results from both projects suggest that the crocodile population is undergoing some reorganisation 

in response to several changes, but that unpredictable environmental variation could 

place the crocodiles at risk of continued declines and even local extinction in the focal study area. 

Nile Crocodile skin market 

Howard Kelly reports that whilst the market for crocodile skins remains depressed, there has 

recently been a demand for good-quality large skins as well as for skins in the 28-34 cm range. 

Grading criteria continues to be a major issue in South Africa with many farmers now realising that, 

unless significant changes are made to crocodile rearing techniques, they may never attain the 

grades required. A number of old established farms have closed down, with others focusing their 

efforts on tourism. Many of the smaller operators are surviving through sale of small skins to the 

Mexican boot market and by means of local tanning through some of the established “crocodile 

tanneries” in South Africa.

The demand for crocodile skins in the 28-34 cm range can be attributed to skins being purchased by 

the ailing ostrich industry in an effort to increase their product offering and to justify keeping their 

tanneries open. Increased demand for quality large skins has also resulted in a number of farms 

going the single-pen route, despite the negative publicity in South Africa regarding single pen 

rearing. The South African NSPCA has called for a ban on this practice. A Standard for the keeping 

of crocodiles in South Africa (SANS 631 of 2010) is available online at 

https://law.resource.org/pub/za/ibr/za.sans.631.2009.pdf. 

There are efforts in South Africa to revive the SA Crocodile Farmers Association (SACFA) - the 

chairman of SACFA resigned in 2012, whereupon the SACFA Executive suspended its activities. 

The aim is to reconstitute the Association during 2013. 

NAMIBIA 

Howard Kelly reports that an evaluation of the status of wild Nile Crocodiles in Namibia was 

carried out for the Namibian Government in 2012. One of the recommendations in the report called 

for an immediate completion of the Namibian Crocodile Management Plan. The purpose of this 

investigation was to ascertain whether the wild crocodile populations in the four ‘Caprivi rivers’ 

could support a commercial venture in the region. The initiative was undertaken by the Ministry of 

Trade and was partially driven by concerns regarding the social and economic conditions in the 

Caprivi region; there is extensive poverty and HCC is a serious issue. A business model is currently 

under assessment and highlights that the Nile crocodile is a keystone species for the region with the 

potential to act as a catalyst for real socio-economic change. The Environmental Impact Assessment 

for the initiative should be finalised by mid-2013. 

MALAWI 

A social survey has been carried out in TA Pemba and Maganga’s areas in Salima District, which 

showed that HCC is a real disaster risk in the areas. Structures in place to reduce the risk of HCC 

are deemed to be ‘weak’. Trophy hunting was authorised by the Department of National Parks and 

Wildlife (DNPW) in 2010, with a quota of 15 wild crocodiles in 2012. 

Alison Leslie and a PhD student are planning a new crocodile research project for Malawi entitled: 

“Population status, levels and trends of the Nile crocodile in a human conflicted environment along 

the Lower Shire River”. This project will include the lower portion of the Shire River and the wellknown 

elephant marsh area. Crocodiles in this area are said to be under-nourished due to the lack of 

prey as a result of conflict with humans. It is hoped that the project will commence in the early 

stages of 2014. 

BOTSWANA 

Vince Shacks and Sven Bourquin are continuing with the Okavango Crocodile Monitoring project 

with a study on the “Baseline Levels of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Crocodiles of the 

Okavango Delta, Botswana”. 

UGANDA 

At CoP16 in Bangkok, March 2013, the status of a research project being undertaken at Murchison 

Falls was discussed with members of the Ugandan delegation. The CSG was thanked for providing 

“crocodilian” literature, which greatly assisted the researchers in that country.

Prepared by: 

Christine Lippai and Alison Leslie, Regional Vice Chairs 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC.2.1.2 


Ethiopia, Lake Chamo 


At CoP16, Bangkok, discussions were held with the Ethiopian delegation. 

Two crocodile ranches are currently in operation, both based on the collection of C. niloticus 

hatchlings from Lake Chamo. The Ethiopian population was down-listed to Appendix II, initially 

under Resolution Conf. 5.21 (1990; CoP7) as a temporary measure in order to export rapidly 

accumulating ranched products, and later under Resolution Conf. 3.15 (1992; CoP8), for the 

purposes of ranching and limited trophy hunting. Ranching has continued, but trophy hunting was 

recently prohibited, although the basis of this decision is now being re-examined. The policy of 

returning a percentage of ranched crocodiles back into the wild also merits re-examination in light 

of the current status of the population. Discussions with the Ethiopian delegation at CoP16 also 

included the possibility of a CSG review with recommendations. 

Because there seems to be a series of management issues involved, the CSG is currently looking at 

getting a review team into Ethiopia, sometime within the next 6 months. This could involve about 

two weeks in Ethiopia and external funding will be sought. Possible review team members are 

under consideration of the Executive. 

Prepared by: 

Grahame Webb, CSG Chairman 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC.2.2. 


West and Central Africa 


CSG activities in West and Central Africa as far as we know are taking place in Gabon and Ivory 

Coast. Matthew Shirley should report separate on these later parts. 

Work we are aware of has been continuing in Benin on Osteolaemus and in Niger on the Nile 

crocodile. In Benin two teams are currently working on crocodilians. Mainly supported by IUCN 

Netherlands and La Ferme aux Crocodiles/SOS Crocodiles, the Credit ONG program led by Martial 

Koudern and Damien Martin, is trying to assess the status of Osteolamus tetraspis in an area of 

marshes and remains of primary forest. Genetic screening is now being conducted by Fabian 

Schmidt (Zoo Leipzig) to confirm that the population belongs to the Ogoue cluster. A dozen 

animals are radio monitored by now and great work is being conducted with local fishermen and 

hunters to try and reduce anthropic pressure not only on crocodilians population but also on the 

wildlife in general. Credit ONG is now trying to acquire pieces of wetland and primary forest to 

secure. 

Nathaly Kpera has also been continuing her work on Osteolaemus populations in various villages in 

north Benin where Osteolaemus sp. have colonized ponds dug for the agro-pastoral use. 

In Niger, the project financed by Lacoste/FDB and La Ferme aux Crocodiles/SOS Crocodiles was 

officially launched by Christian Noirard during a workshop presentation made to the French Cultural 

Centre in Niamey, Niger, on 6 March 2013. The project aims at dealing with following problems. 

The area of Parc W is facing a rapid population dynamics which contributes to increase pressure on 

natural resources. The wetland consists of the Niger River is the physical limit of the protected Area 

in the northern region. Local people have a quasi-mechanical pressure on the buffer space. Thus the 

needs and following threats have been identified: 

• The conflict dynamics for fisheries, fishermen claim traditional rights of access to rivers, 

including prohibitions on the right bank of the Niger (legally owned by the AP), and on both 

sides for Mekrou. 

• The legal boundaries of the W National Park and especially the island of Karey Kopto for which 

the villagers claimed access for cultural reasons and production. 

• The lack of a management plan of the wetland. The exploitation of natural resources is nonrational 

and sectoral basis. 

• Lack of resources (material, human and financial) in technical services for the tracking and 

monitoring of the wetland. 

• Population pressure and poverty of the population. 

• Degradation of habitat, loss of species and pressure on a procession of endangered heritage. 

• The emergence of conflicts between humans and wildlife, hippos, crocodiles, manatees...

Running over a minimum of 3 years of time, the program includes: 

Ecological monitoring and creation of a Study Centre and Valuation of Wet Zone: CEVZHU. The 

CEZHU is a science center for monitoring and conservation of the wetland. It hosts the program 

activities at the heart of the project area, on the island of Karey-Kopto. There, working eight ecoguards 

trained by the project and features the ranger station in ecological monitoring and the fight 

against poaching. The establishment of permanent ponds for Nile crocodiles on the Island 

Conservation Karey Kopto. The setting up of a reintroduction of Nile crocodile to strengthen the last 

wild populations. 

The Development of Income-Generating Activities such as a Fish Breeding farm (9 breeding ponds 

and 18 floating cages) and help to value agricultural by-products through granulation (making food). 

More can be learned about this program at www.coeco.asso.fr. 

The idea of having a third meeting in Benin in the Penjari Park next autumn was abandoned, as the 

place was part of the WPACA complex and not bring anything new. The responsibility to organize 

the next West African Meeting was taken over by Mathew Shirley. 

Matthew Shirley report 

Since the 2012 CSG meeting in Manila there have been some very exciting updates in western 

Africa. First, I am very happy to say that I have finally finished my dissertation, graduated and will 

be gainfully employed full-time in Gabon for the foreseeable future. As part of this, I will be 

looking to continue several crocodile activities in Gabon. In 2012 I partnered with the Smithsonian 

Institute-Gabon program to use satellite telemetry to explore the coastal movements of Nile 

crocodiles including their use of the marine environment. We are going to expand this project in 

2013 to look at the impact of the oil industry on crocodiles, particularly Dwarf crocodile abundance 

and trade. Since 2012 I have been working with researchers from the French IRD and University of 

Rouen to study a unique population of cave-dwelling Osteolaemus which we will continue, bringing 

in collaborations with Marissa Tellez to explore the coevolution of Osteolaemus and its parasites. 

Finally, as of late 2012 the Gabonese National Parks Agency (ANPN) has finalized drafts of the 10- 

year management plans for all national parks. Annual crocodile monitoring is one of the top 

biodiversity objectives for 6 of the 13 national parks. As part of this, I am collaborating with ANPN 

to look at the trade in crocodiles at the most significant bushmeat port in Gabon (Lambarene) with a 

view to making this sustainable so as to minimize the impact on protected crocodile populations. 

Outside of Gabon the most significant activity is taking place in Cote d’Ivoire. The Zoo National 

d’Abidjan has recently employed an independent zoo consultant to help rehabilitate this facility - an 

activity which has found the backing of all levels of government including the presidency and most 

embassies. The focal project of the zoo rehabilitation will be reinitiating captive breeding of the 

West African endemic Mecistops cataphractus for the express purpose of reintroduction. I visited 

the facility in February 2013 to train the zoo staff in crocodile handling and care, examine the 

facilities for rehabilitation needs, inspect the crocodiles towards the purpose of forming breeding 

groups, and establish the necessary links with the government and other institutions. Since that 

time, we now have M. cataphractus eggs from 7 different clutches incubating (something that has 

not happened since before 2000) and are signing agreements with the Ministry of Water and Forests 

to conduct a nationwide program on human-crocodile conflict and conservation. The former is 

focused on Crocodylus suchus due to human fatalities at the presidential palace in Yamoussoukro in 

summer 2012 and recent sightings of this species in the Ebrie Lagoon in downtown Abidjan. The 

latter is to be focused on M. cataphractus with the captive breeding and reintroduction playing the 

focal role. The national parks service is a ready and willing collaborator with whom we will work to

ensure capacity-building in biomonitoring techniques and increased capacity for national parks law 

enforcement. 

This work in Gabon and Cote d’Ivoire has recently called renewed attention to the West Africa 

working group of the CSG for the need for a third working meeting. There has been discussion 

about holding it in Abidjan, Libreville, and Pendjari National Park (Benin) pending availability of 

funding and support. Elsewhere in the region, two student SRAS recipients nominated by myself 

working in DRC and Uganda have recently completed their projects and are finalizing their theses. 

Collaboration with the University of Abidjan-Cocody will ensure the benefit of Ivoirian students 

from the M. cataphractus project. Mohammed Ezat of Egypt has recently begun his MSc program 

at the South Valley University in Aswan, Egypt, and will be looking at incubation and TSD in Nile 

crocodiles with a view to facilitating future Egyptian ranching efforts. Finally, Red List assessments 

for all African crocodile taxa are underway with the hopes they will be ready for review by the end 

of the summer. 

Prepared by: 

Samuel Martin, with input from Chritian Noirard CoEco and Matthew Shirley 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



East and Southeast Asia Regional Report 


Lao PDR: (Alex McWilliam, Lao PDR Program Operations Manager, WCS) 

Community Based Crocodile Recovery and Livelihood Improvement Project (CBCRLIP): 

The current project (October 2009-December 2013) is to implement the CBCRLIP in accordance 

with the MoU with the PAFO of Savanakhet Province, signed on 30 April 2010. This is the third 

phase of this ongoing project; Phases 1 and 2 were completed in 2009. 

The goal for each project site is recovery of the local crocodile population and restoration of 

associated wetlands, linked by socio-economic incentives that substantially improve local 

livelihoods. The specific objectives of the project as stated in Section 3.1 of the MOU are: 

1. Livelihood improvement. Improvement of local livelihoods is mainly linked to alternate 

sourcing of water and earthmoving initiatives that create new bodies of water. If the crocodile 

recovery is successful, tourism will be new source income. 

2. Wetlands conservation. Crocodile habitat at most project sites is moderately to heavily 

disturbed by local people striving to satisfy their basic economic needs. A key strategy in 

restoring wetlands important for crocodiles and long-term conservation is to shift pressure 

away from these sites. This will be done by providing alternatives, awareness and law 

enforcement. 

3. Crocodile replenishment. ‘Headstarting’ is the method of choice to boost small existing 

populations at several sites and re-introduce crocodiles at sites where suitable habitat exists or 

can be restored. Relocated baby crocodile will come for the Ban Khern Zoo. 

4. Project implementation. Implementation will be co-managed by a Crocodile Project Unit 

consisting of PAFO and DAFO, members of local communities and WCS. WCS staff will at 

every stage build Lao staff capacity to eventually sustain project activities. 

Current progress of the project according to these objectives and activities mentioned in Section 3.2 

of the MOU are presented in the table below. A short description of additional activities to be 

completed to 31 December 2013 is also presented in the table below. 

Table 1. Activities, current results, and further planned activities of the CBCRLIP. 

Activity Results Further planned activities 

DNA determination and 

‘head-starting’ 

We have assessed the DNA of 21 adults at the 

Lao Zoo which may potentially be used for 

captive breeding of Siamese crocodiles that 

may be released to the wild. Of these 10 

Now that we have identified the pure 

Siamese crocodiles at the Lao Zoo 

and started the captive breeding 

program it is important to continue

Conservation Outreach 

Nest guarding and 

boundary demarcation 

Wetland improvement 

individual crocs, 3 males and 7 females, were 

identified as pure Siamese crocodiles. We have 

now established a captive breeding program 

for Siamese crocodiles at the zoo. 

Regarding ‘head-starting’ we have 

successfully reared 26 juvenile crocodiles, 19 

of which have already been released to the Xe 

Champhone wetland complex. 17 of the 

juvenile crocodiles are still being raised at a 

local village and in the Lao Zoo. These 36 

crocodiles represent a 10.4% increase in the 

global population. All of these crocodiles have 

been hatched from eggs from the wild that 

were located during our regular annual 

surveys. 

We have used two main methods to increase 

awareness about crocodile related conservation 

issues. These are: 

• Radio Spot: 2 days a week, 30 min per day 

for 6 months. 15 hours total (through 

Savannakhet radio station) 

• Crocodile Campaign awareness was running 

in 9 village and 5 school secondary schools 

and over 4000 people involved. 

During our surveys once we have located a 

crocodile nest the nests are then monitored and 

guarded until the eggs are collected. Each 

breeding season we have teams of survey staff 

from local communities who seek out new 

nests of Siamese crocodiles. To date we have 

located 7 nests. 

To date we have assisted 9 local communities 

in two districts (Champhone, Songkhone and 

Xonnabouly) to zone 2550 ha of critical 

crocodile habitat. We have also assisted these 

villages to develop usage regulations for the 

zoned wetland areas. 

We have successfully developed regulations at 

8 villages to manage the use of critical habitat 

for crocodiles. These regulations are based on 

both customary and formal rules to protect 

habitat and crocodiles at project sites. 

We have also completed the establishment of 

Village Crocodile Conservation Committees 

totaling 67 people in 9 villages. Each 

committee consists of five to seven people. 

The project team also lead village conservation 

group and villagers in 4 villages/wetland areas 

to reduce invasive plant species and water 

hyacinth which improves wetland conditions. 

this activity to raise crocodiles that 

can be released to the wild to 

strengthen head-starting. 

We will continue to raise the 

remaining 17 crocodiles and we 

expect them to be released in early 

2014. We will also continue surveys 

at the project site to locate more 

nests and eggs during the breeding 

season this year. 

Assisted by Lao students and local 

government staff we will conduct a 

post campaign review to assess the 

effectiveness of the conservation 

outreach methods. 

We will also conduct further 

conservation outreach to strengthen 

the knowledge and understanding of 

local regulations about usage of 

natural resources in wetland areas. 

During the breeding season of 2013 

we will continue to survey for 

breeding crocodiles. Once located 

these nests will be guarded and 

where possible we will obtain the 

eggs for head-starting. 

We will continue to assist one 

community to create crocodile 

conservation zones, particularly in 

those areas where we plan to release 

in 2014 the crocodiles from headstarting 

activities. 

Up to the end of the year we plan to 

assist communities by developing 

community based protection teams 

to enforce local regulations and also 

monitor crocodiles in key habitat 

areas. This will help them protect 

natural resources that are crucial for 

their livelihood. 

Monitoring 

populations 

crocodile 

Since 2011 the village monitoring teams have 

conducted monitoring 78 times (66 times at 

day time and 12 time at night time) and about 

258 hours in total. The team collected 41 

We will continue all of these 

monitoring techniques until the end 

of December 2013.

Fish pond and irrigation 

development 

Meeting and workshop 

crocodile scats and encountered 5 tracks and 7 

nests with 112 eggs. 

We have helped target communities to increase 

their agriculture production through the 

construction of irrigation 3 dykes and 2 weirs 

in Champhone and Xonnabouly districts. This 

has increased the number of hectares of rice 

production from 25 to 110 hectares. We also 

have conducted regular maintenance on all 

dykes and weirs that we have constructed. This 

increased production should reduce pressure 

on wetland habitat that the crocodiles live in. It 

also increases the amount of water area that is 

available for fish to breed in and the amount of 

fish available to local communities to support 

their livelihood. 

We have held regular meetings with our 

government and local community counterparts 

to discuss issues and plan activities. Each year 

we also hold a large meeting to report results 

to our counterparts and consult with them 

about any issues and upcoming activities. 

We will continue to monitor the 

effectiveness of these dykes and 

weirs. 

We will hold our next annual 

meeting in April 2013. Before the 

end of 2013 we will also host a 

study tour to share knowledge and 

exchange experience with other 

crocodile management experts in 

Cambodia. We also plan to support a 

project representative to attend the 

next Crocodile Specialist Group 

meeting in May 2013. 

  

Additional activities completed 

• The project supported 3 students from NUoL to undertake their internship and complete their 

final year’s thesis. 

• 67 villagers (VCCG) were trained on how to use GPS and collect data during surveys of 

wetland areas. 

• 4 government staff from target districts were trained on crocodiles biology, GPS usage and data 

collection. 

• 18 villagers and 2 district officials attended a study tour to the Lao Zoo in order to learn and 

experience about how baby crocodiles should be raised and treated. 

• Project staff and a government representative attended a Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) 

meeting in the Philippines. The project also hosted a visit by the to the project’s site. 

• Developed a conceptual model for the project in the future. 

In addition to the above activities WCS is currently discussing with donors and local counterparts 

about the continuation of project activities after the end f 2013. Crocodile and wetland management, 

as well as the improvement of local livelihoods, are ongoing tasks and WCS believes it is important 

to continue to strengthen our project in the future to ensure successful outcomes. At our CBCRLIP 

annual meeting to be held on 4 April 2013 we discussed with counterparts the priority objectives for 

the next phase of the project. We expect these to include: 

1. Strengthening wetland management practices and protection of population of crocodiles in the 

Xe Champhone wetland complex 

2. Increasing the resilience of communities to effectively deal with climate change by assisting to 

establish models for alternative livelihood sources, for example community based tourism 

3. Continuing the head starting program and increasing effective monitoring of the crocodile 

population

4. Continuing appropriate awareness raising activities 

5. Continuing research about crocodiles and other wetland biodiversity 

6. Furthering collaboration with concerned government sectors and other project partners 

operating in the RAMSAR listed Xe Champhone wetland complex 

7. Continuing to develop the capacity of local community and government counterparts to 

actively engage in long term management of critical wetland areas 

Cambodia: (FFI, Forestry Administration and Fisheries Administration & Heng Sovannara, 

Cambodian Fisheries Department) 

Ongoing protection of three key breeding populations in Cambodia. We continue to employ 22 

crocodile wardens to patrol every month within the three key breeding sites to provide protection to 

Siamese crocodiles and their habitat, reduce threats to both, and provide an early warning system of 

any issues at each of the sites. We hope to submit a proposal to establish these sites (excluding 

Areng if they hydrodam will go ahead) and the reintroduction/reinforcement sites as nationally 

protected crocodile sanctuaries under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, to provide 

the highest level of legal protection, hopefully preventing more sites from being lost to hydrodam or 

other infrastructure development projects. The hydrodams themselves would usually not result in 

wiping out the crocodile populations (although the Areng in particular would destroy current 

breeding and nursery habitat), but the influx of in-migrants associated with hydrodam development 

to take advantage of illegal logging, land grabbing and poaching opportunities pose a very big threat 

to Siamese crocodiles and as such, if the Areng dam does go ahead the crocodiles will need to be 

relocated – for which we are currently training and testing the feasibility of doing so. 

Monitoring of population trends and reproduction. We conduct annual monitoring of each of 

the three breeding populations; all appear to be stable but a full analysis of monitoring data will be 

conducted in the coming months. Surveys for nests confirmed only 1 nest from Areng in 2012 (18 

hatchlings being head-started), but hatchlings have been reported from Chhay Reap, and from other 

sites in Cambodia last year. 

National Siamese Crocodile Reintroduction and Reinforcement Strategy and Action Plan 

developed. This is essentially a 20-year recovery plan (2012-2031) for Siamese crocodile in 

Cambodia. The plan was developed in consultation with the Forestry Administration, Fisheries 

Administration (both of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) and with the Wildlife 

Conservation Society. The plan outlines the necessary steps to secure and recover Siamese 

crocodiles in the wild in Cambodia, with the short-term goal to double the wild population of 

Siamese crocodiles in 5 years, and the long-term goal: to establish a fully viable wild population of 

Siamese crocodiles. The plan has been reviewed and endorsed by the IUCN-SSC Crocodile 

Specialist Group and the IUCN-SSC Reintroduction Specialist Group. It is currently undergoing a 

final technical review by key staff of the Fisheries Administration and the Forestry Administration. 

FFI will integrate these comments into a final version, which will be submitted to the Ministry of 

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries for approval hopefully by mid-2013. 

First pilot release conducted of 18 captive-bred crocodiles back into the wild. We conducted a 

pilot release (“pilot” because the action plan has not yet been approved) of 18 juvenile Siamese 

crocodiles (1-2 m long) which had been confiscated from the trade and/or bred at Phnom Tamao 

Wildlife Rescue Centre. The crocodiles were health checked by the Wildlife Conservation Society 

Wildlife Veterinarian before release, using protocols developed by the WCS global vet program 

(standard biochemistry and hematology values) for other crocodile species. Two out of 20 potential 

crocodiles were deemed not eligible for release as they had multiple values outside of the “normal” 

range.

Following health checks, the 18 crocodiles were transported to the release site in the Cardamom 

Mountains (upstream from one of the existing breeding colonies) and put into a soft-release 

enclosure for 6 days to allow them to recover from the journey and adapt to their new environment. 

Lonnie McCaskill advised on transportation methods and both he and Jenny Daltry were present for 

the release. Ten of the crocodiles have been fitted with radio-transmitters and are monitored 

monthly - all are still alive and well and have dispersed up to 5 km from the release site, into 

different deep water pools (some pools have 2 or 3 crocodiles in them). The crocodiles are already 

wary of people and infrequently seen and so far, they seem to be adapting to life well. We will 

continue to track them for as long as the water levels permit (we expect to have to stop during the 

wet season), and will relocate them at the onset of the next dry season when access to the site will 

be possible again. 

Preparation of 27 additional crocodiles for release in 2013/2014. A further 9 captive-bred 

crocodiles in Phnom Tamao have been genetically identified as purebred crocodiles, to be released 

in November/December 2013 and radio-tracked for at least 6 months after, if they are healthy 

enough for release. Furthermore, 18 head-started baby crocodiles from the Areng Valley (proposed 

dam site) will also be ready for release (18 months old) by December. 

Crocodile Farmers Association supported and identification of purebred Siamese crocodiles 

in crocodile farms. We have been working closely with the Fisheries Administration to support the 

development of a National Crocodile Farmers Association. We have provided input to the 

constitution and regulations of the association (or the draft by-laws as they are sometimes referred 

to as well) and recently supported a workshop for the Crocodile Farmers Association where many 

aspects of the draft by-laws were agreed and some were consolidated. A council now needs to be 

elected before the association can start to function. The by-laws refer to the need for the Association 

to contribute to the conservation of wild crocodiles. We hope to begin working with the Fisheries 

Administration and select crocodile farmers, to identify any purebred Siamese crocodiles in 

crocodile farms. We will work firstly with farms who know the origin of their stock and who may 

be willing to either donate breeding stock (or exchange for some of the 40 hybrids at Phnom Tamao 

Wildlife Rescue Centre), and/or breed purebred hatchlings to be donated for the 

reintroduction/reinforcement programme. We will work together with the Fisheries Administration 

to conduct genetic testing in June/July 2013 and start to negotiate the transfer of breeding stock 

and/or breeding of hatchlings with farmers. 

National Crocodile Conservation Network (re-named from Taskforce). FFI, FA and FiA have 

discussed relevant participants from different organizations and agencies to become involved in 

Network meetings soon after the National Siamese Crocodile Reintroduction and Reinforcement 

Strategy and Action Plan has been formally approved by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and 

Fisheries. We aim to meet quarterly to coordinate crocodile conservation, disseminate information 

and particularly to implement the reintroduction and reinforcement program in partnership. 

Publications. We plan to produce at least two publications in 2013, one probably to update the 

status of Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia, and a second on the preliminary results of radio-tracking 

the released crocodiles.

Sarawak, Malaysia: (Francis Gombek, Sabah Wildlife Department) 

1. Introduction 

The crocodile management and conservation effort in Sarawak received a shot in the arm when 

the Sarawak State Cabinet approved the project, “Holistic Crocodiles Resource Inventory for 

Sarawak, 2013” with a funding of Malaysia Ringgit 800,000. 

2. Project Proposal 

The project proposal, “Holistic Crocodiles Resource Inventory for Sarawak, 2013” was 

approved by the Managing Director/CEO of SARAWAK FORESTRY on 27 November 2012. 

The main objectives of the project are: 

i. To determine the population status of crocodiles in Sarawak; 

ii. To determine and map the crocodile distribution and habitats in various river systems in 

Sarawak; 

iii. To inventory the availability of crocodiles’ food sources within their habitats; 

iv. To determine the carrying capacity of the river systems to support crocodiles; 

v. To determine the extent of human-crocodile coexistence/conflicts; 

The sub-objectives of the project are: 

i. To identify and establish crocodile-free zones; 

ii. To identify priority areas for the establishment of crocodile sanctuaries; 

iii. To develop proposal to downgrade Sarawak’s crocodile population status from CITES 

Appendix I to Appendix II; 

iv. To develop centralised database using Geographic Information System (GIS); 

v. To develop Strategic Crocodile Management Plan for Sarawak. 

3. Sarawak State Cabinet Decision 

The Sarawak State Cabinet was given a briefing on “Strategic Crocodile Management in 

Sarawak in November 2012 in Kuching, Sarawak and after much deliberation the State Cabinet 

approved the following strategic measures in crocodile management: 

i. The Cabinet agreed that crocodiles can be conserved but the level, extent and location 

for conservation need to be determined; 

ii. Establish crocodile-free zones at major population centres (Kuching City, Miri City, 

Sibu, Bintulu, Sri Aman, Limbang, Niah) and popular recreation areas (Pasir Panjang, 

Damai Beach, Siar Beach, Wind Cave). The presence of crocodiles in these areas will 

not be tolerated and will be killed or captured and removed; 

iii. Prepare for crocodile downlisting from CITES Appendix I to Appendix II by 2016 for 

Sarawak; 

iv. Fast track a statewide crocodile survey covering all major river systems to be completed 

by end by 2013 by engaging volunteers, universities and experts to complement 

SARAWAK FORESTRY personnel. Priority to be given to survey the following rivers: 

Salak, Sadong/Sebangan,Samarahan and Batang Lupar. Survey cost is estimated at 

RM800,000; 

v. Swift WildLife Action Team (SWAT) to be appropriately equipped including 

undergoing specialized training, e.g., handling and carryingsuitable firearms. 

Specialized training, equipment and gadgets with crocodile deterring frequency could 

also be looked into. The Cabinet directed sourcing of fund for the purpose from the 

Federal Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; 

vi. Expand the 3M Buaya awareness programme statewide by way of involvement oof 

relevant government agencies (e.g. Resident & District Offices, Police, Fire & Rescue 

Department and Civil Defence) and other stakeholders; and

vii. 

Although the Cabinet has no objection to the proposal that the State Government 

encourages the establishment of crocodile chair in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak 

(UNIMAS) as a centre of excellence for crocodile research in Malaysia, the proposal is 

considered premature at this stage. Instead the Cabinet directed a comprehensive study 

should first be conducted relating to food/resources balance for crocodilevis-a-vis 

human being. Determine what crocodile population level a river system can sustainably 

support without adversely affecting human safety and economic activities. This study 

could be conducted as per item (iv). 

4. Activities Relating to Crocodile Management 

i. 3M Buaya Awareness Program 

The 3Ms stands for Mengenali, Memahami and Memulihara which means to Know, 

Understand and Conserve crocodiles. Buaya is the Malay word for crocodile. A one-day 

awareness programme was conducted by SARAWAK FORESTRY at a village, Kampung 

Seduku 13 October 2012. The event was participated by some 200 villagers including 

pupils from the village school. The participants were brief on crocodile ecology, economic 

importance and conservation. The closing ceremony of the event was graced by the 

Member of Parliament for the area, Dauk Rohani Karim. 

ii. Formation of Swift Wildlife Action Team (SWAT) 

The SWAT of SARAWAK FORESTRY was formed on 4 May 2012 with the objective of, 

among other things, managing human-crocodile conflicts/crises. Since then, SWAT had 

been in the forefront in engaging the public and aggrieved parties when crocodile attacks 

occured. 

iii. Crocodile surveys, monitoring and trapping 

The table below summarizes the surveys, monitoring and trapping activities carried out by 

SWAT: 

No. Location Date Activity 

1 Sg. Selang, Lundu 4 Feb 2012 Monitoring & trapping 

2 Telaga Air, Lundu 8 June 2012 Trapping 

3 Kpg. Seduku, Sri Aman 15 Oct 2012 3M Buaya Programme 

4 Sg. Sarawak 15 Oct 2012 Monitoring & trapping 

5 Kpg. Selang, Lundu 7 Nov 2012 Monitoring 

6 Batang Ai, Sri Aman 29 Sept 2012 Monitoring 

7 Sg. Selang, Lundu 3-6 Jan 2013 Monitoring & trapping 

8 Gedong 30 Jan 2013 Site evaluation 

9 Sg. Sarawak 29-30 Jan 2013 Monitoring & trapping 

10 Tabuan Dayak, Kuching 18 Feb 2013 Site evaluation 

11 Sg. Pinang, Kota Samarahan 6 Mar 2013 Site evaluation 

12 Sg. Rambungan, Kuching 25-27 Mar 2013 Survey & monitoring 

13 Corporate Office 15 Mar 2013 3M Buaya Programme – 

Presentation to Aquaculture 

operators on crocodiles 

14 Simunjan 17 March 2013 Site evaluation 

15 Kpg. Niup, Kota Samarahan 2 April 2013 Dead croc retrieved, brought 

to Matang Wildlife Centre 

for burial. 

16 Sg. Pandan Kecil & Besar 8-9 April 2013 Survey & monitoring 

17 Kpg. Niup, Kota Samarahan 10-13 April 2013 Survey & monitoring 

5. Incidences of Crocodile Attacks 

Annex 1 summarises the incidence of crocodile attacks in 2012 and 2013.

No. Date Time Tide 

Tide Name Actual Place Main River River Division Status Remark 

Level 

Basin 

111 25.1.12 0900hrs freshwater swamp Belaja Ak Gadoh Rh. Sli Merio Tambak, Engkilili Sg. Sedan 5 Sri Aman Survived Checking fish trap 

112 21.3.12 1600 hrs river Clay ak Engkadan Rh. Philip, Batu Angus, Engkilili Sg. Basi kanan 5 Sri Aman Survived Fishing(Nyala) 

113 22.5.12 2204hrs Peter Heerema Sadan Sg. Basi? (Linggang Ulu Tekalong) 5 Sri Aman killed 

Bathing - reported drown 

- Police found remnant 

of bones and intestines 

believed to be victim - 

suspected croc attack 

114 18.6.12 ? hrs Siah ak Munsong Rh. Embol, Sg. Anak, Roban Sg. Sebelak, Btg Krian 7 Betong killed bathing - body found 2 

115 5.7.12 ? hrs Drahman Chali (55) Kampong Beladin Btg. Saribas 6 Betong killed 

116 22.8.12 7:30 High beach front Ashley Austin Chin (14 yrs) Sg. Maong Kuching Pasir Panjang 2 Kuching Survived 

117 24.8.12 8:00 High Under the bridge Pai (Construction worker) Kuching Sg. Sarawak 2 Kuching Survived 

bwashing hand while 

collecting jungle produce 

Swiming in the sea at 

waist high 

Nature call, under the 

new bridge to BCCK, 

croc about 2-3 m long 

118 25.11.12 1700 High Beach front (sea) Muhammad Azlan bin Marzuki Jalan Hj Mataim Kuching Pasir panjang 2 Kuching Survived Swiming in the sea 

119 5.3.13 0030 ? Manja Salman (29) Kabong Sebelak/Krian 7 Betong killed 

on the boat laying net 

with a friend Mahathir 

Treng (17) 

120 5.3.13 1600 ? Jerry Sylvester Uline (40) Rumah Girrie, Bengang, Betong Sebelak/Krian (?) 7 Betong killed (?) 

on the boat laying net 

with a friend Mahathir 

Treng (17) 

121 16.3.13 2100 High River Bank Rozaili Bin Sabeli (19 + ) Kpg. Sg. Lingkau, Simunjan Sadong 4 Samarahan Survived 

Line fishing from river 

bank; victim strugle to 

free himself in the water

Sabah, Malaysia (Toshinori Tsubouchi) 

Whilst crocodile attacks in Sabah are not increasing, they occur constantly. (Summary below 

refers). There is still no systematic survey of crocodile populations in Sabah. One further 

registration for a captive breeding facility was submitted to the CITES secretariat, however, a 

response is still awaited. 

SUMMARY OF CROCODILE ATTACKS IN SABAH 

YEAR NO: DISTRICT - LOCATION 

HUMAN CASUALITIES 

DEAD WOUNDED 

01 Beluran, SANDAKAN 2 1 

02 Sg. Pilai Menang, BEAUFORT 0 2 

03 Ulu Sg. Menanggol, KINABATANGAN 0 2 

2000 

04 Sg. Segaliud Lokan, SANDAKAN 0 1 

05 Sg. Paitan, Kg. Tg. Lipis, Beluran, SANDAKAN 1 0 

06 Sg. Paitan Kg. Kebulu, Beluran, SANDAKAN 1 0 

07 Kg. Kelumpang, Kunak, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

08 Sg. Takala Ladang Agrisia, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

01 Sg. Segaliud Lokan, SANDAKAN 0 2 

2001 02 Sg. Tangkarason, Beluran, SANDAKAN 0 1 

03 Sg. Silabukan, LAHAD DATU 0 1 

01 Sg. Segaliud, Kg. Segaliud, SANDAKAN 0 1 

2002 

02 Kuala Sg. Lokan, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

03 Sg. Kalumpang, Semporna, TAWAU 1 0 

04 FELDA Sahabat 46, Tungku, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

2003 01 FELDA Sahabat 46, Tungku, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

2004 No Case 0 0 

01 Sg. Bengkoka, Kg. Bawang, PITAS 0 1 

2005 

02 Sg. Serudong, TAWAU 1 0 

03 Sg. Long Patau Tunku, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

04 Sg. Bengkoka, Kg. Krisik, PITAS 0 1 

2006 

01 Felda Sahabat 46 Tunku, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

02 Ladang Timora, TAWAU 1 0 

2007 

01 Bt. 9, Jalan Apas, TAWAU 0 1 

02 Sg. Menanggol, KINABATANGAN 0 1 

2008 

01 FELDA Sahabat 46, Tunku, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

02 Sg. Paitan, Kg. Kebulu, Beluran, SANDAKAN 1 0 

01 Sg. Betam, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

02 Sg. Tingkayu, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

2009 

03 Tanjung Lebian, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

04 Sg. Koyah, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

05 Sg. Koyah, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

06 Sg. Teneggang Besar, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

2010 

01 Sg. Kelumpang, TAWAU 1 0 

02 Sg. Patau, LAHAD DATU 1 0 

2011 

01 Sg. Kuyuh, PITAS 0 1 

02 Sg. Bengkoka, PITAS 0 1 

01 Sg. Jeroco, KINABATANGAN 1 0 

2012 

02 Sg. Segaliud, KINABATANGAN 0 1 

03 Sg. Umas, TAWAU 1 0 

04 (Parit Jepun) Kg. Ring Tempasuk, KOTA BELUD 0 1 

2013 

TOTAL : 25 19

Philippines (Tom Dacey) 

The Philippine Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) continue to consider review/revision 

of the “Philippine Crocodile National Recovery Plan” and proposals to formulate new institutional 

mechanisms for the “Philippine Crocodile Conservation and Management Plan”. 

Pag-asa Farms in Davao del Norte, Mindanao, continue to successfully breed C. mindorensis in 

semi-wild conditions without any supplementary feeding. Progeny from this semi-natural facility 

are being used for reintroduction into the wild at Siargao Island. In March 2013, Crocodylus 

Porosus Philippines Inc. (CPPI) reintroduced 36 C. mindorensis into Paghongawan Marsh, near 

Jaboy Village, on Siragao Island. 

A new distribution record for C. mindorensis has been made in the highlands of Lake Sebu 

(southern Mindanao). 

What was the largest Saltwater crocodile (C. porosus) in captivity, Lolong, (6.17 m), died at the 

Bunawan Eco-Park and Research Centre, Mindanao, in February 2013. The skin and skeleton have 

been taken to the National Museum of the Philippines, Manila, for taxidermy and preservation. 

Japan (Toshinori Tsubouchi) 

The CSG Regional Chair for East and Southeast Asia, Toshinori Tsubouchi, advised that the 

defence counsel in a recent court case involving the importation of crocodiles from Thailand to 

Japan claimed that the species was a hybrid (C.siamensis x C. porosus), and therefore CITES 

regulations did not apply. However, hybrids are regulated by CITES through Resolution Conf. 

10.17 (Rev. CoP14). Where at least one of the lineages of a hybrid is included in Appendix I, then 

the specimen shall be deemed to be on Appendix I. Where both lineages are on Appendix II, then 

the specimen shall be deemed to be on Appendix II. The Judge for the case accepted the CITES 

Resolution and handed down the decision of guilty. Another case of crocodiles being imported from 

Vietnam to Japan is currently under investigation. 

Indonesia (Rob Stuebing) 

Rob Stuebing advised that the Yaysan Konservasi Khatulistiwa (Equator Conservation Foundation 

Indonesia) (YASIWA) has been established to encourage and support conservation management of 

the vast portions of the landscape that lie outside protected areas. http://www.yasiwa.org/ refers. 

Thailand (Tom Dacey) 

Proposals to downlist the Thai populations of C. siamensis and C. porosus from Appendix I to 

Appendix II were unsuccessful at CoP16 (March 2013). It was felt that the populations did not meet 

the criteria for Appendix-II listing. 

Vietnam (Thai Truyen) 

Regarding management of crocodile farming in Vietnam, there have not been any important things 

happening over the past 12 months.

China (Jiang Hongxing) 

1. Continue to release captive-reared alligators to rehabilitate the wild population in Anhui 

Province 

In 2012, five ponds covering 5 ha were newly constructed and restored in the GFF, in 

addition to re-establishing the benthos and restoring the food chain for the releasing 

alligators. 

In June 2012, 6 captive Chinese alligators were released to the restored ponds in the 

Gaojingmiao Forest Farm (GFF) of Langxi County, Anhui Province, where a total of 48 

captive-reared alligators were released from 2006 to present with an annual releasing of 6 

alligators except 9 in 2009 and 2011. 

2. 120 captive-reared alligators released in Zhejiang Province 

Construction Programme for Releasing Chinese alligators in Zhejiang Province was lasted 

for 6 years, and was almost completed by the end of 2011. The program covers 23 ha and 

the total investment for the principal components of the construction and infrastructures 

reaches $US7.35 million. 

On 15 April 2012 a total of 120 Chinese alligators were released to the newly constructed 

and restored habitat, where is the integrative base for scientific research, public education 

and student practice. 

3. Status of wild alligators in Anhui Province 

Five nests with 134 eggs were found in the field of Anhui National Nature Reserve for 

Chinese Alligators (ANNRCA). 83 alligator babies were hatched and the hatch success is 

61.9%, which was increased by 20% in comparison with the former two years. 

The State Forestry Administration of P. R. CHINA initiated the national survey on the wild 

Chinese alligators in 2012. The results show the wild population has been keeping stable 

with a slightly increasing in recent decade, which is about 150 individuals in the wild for 

the time being. 

The delineation of the ANNRCA boundaries was completed in 2012. A total of 306 signs 

were set up across the whole reserve to define the scope. 

4. Captive breeding situation in Anhui and Zhejiang Provinces 

In Anhui Breeding and Research Center for Chinese alligator (ABRCCA in Xuancheng 

City): a total of 7558 eggs were laid and 3209 alligator hatchlings (42.5% hatchling success

ate) were hatched in 2012, which is approximately 2-3 times than the normal years. So far, 

the total captive population exceeds 10 thousand alligators, which can ensure to produce the 

eggs over 1500 every year. 

In Changxing Breeding and Research Center for Chinese alligator (CBRCCA in Zhejiang 

Province): a total of 890 eggs were laid and 806 baby alligators (90.1% hatchling success 

rate) produced in 2012. So far, the total captive population is close to 4000 alligators. 

The two breeding centers have renovated the captive breeding infrastructures and enhanced 

the management of breeding and wintering populations in 2012. Specific measures include 

controlling water level for copulation, increasing nutrition prescription for breeding 

alligators, and improving the warming condition for wintering. 

5. Two Research Projects were approved by the National Natural Science Foundation of P.R. 

China 

The regulation mechanism of sex hormones level and its receptors gene expression in 

follicular development of Chinese alligators. 

Impact of nest-site selection on the sex ratio of hatchling Chinese alligators. 

Two projects were initiated from 1 January 2013 to be ended by 31 December 2016. 

6. The specialized project on habitat evaluation and restoration demonstration of Chinese 

alligators was initiated in Anhui Province, which was funded by the State Forestry 

Administration of P.R. of China. 

Prepared by: 

Tom Dacey, with input from Alex McWilliam, Sarah Brook, Francis Gombek, 

Toshinori Tsubouchi, Jiang Hongxing, 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



North America Regional Report 

AMERICAN CROCODILE (summarized from correspondence with Mike Cherkiss and 

Lindsey Hord): 

An unusual cold spell that pushed into south Florida during the winter of 2010 caused the death of 

at least 140 adult-sized American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus), which caused some concern 

about the their long-term population status in Florida. Night spotlight surveys and nest counts 

indicate that the US population of crocodiles has been relatively stable since 2010, suggesting that 

mortality from the freeze caused only a short-term interruption of a long-term population recovery. 

Overall, this population of the American crocodile is considered secure. Complaints from the public 

about crocodiles increased from 85 to 183 during the period, 2009-2012. Many of these cases 

involved crocodiles that were basking on boat ramps or in yards of residents who live along 

waterways. In most cases, educating complainants or constructing barriers that prevent crocodiles 

from getting onto their properties resolved those problems. In some cases, crocodiles had to be 

removed. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission had to translocate 4-6 crocodiles 

per year over the last 4 years. Crocodiles that have to be moved 3 times are permanently removed 

from the population and placed in zoos or exhibits. This happened only once in the past 4 years. 

STATE REPORTS: 

Alabama - Ray Metzler: An alligator hunting season was instituted in a defined portion of the 

Mobile Delta in 2006 and expanded to a defined area within the Chattahoochee River System in 

2007. A third area of the state including parts of Monroe, Wilcox, and Dallas counties was opened 

in 2011. A total of 295 permits was issued in 2012 that resulted in 155 alligators being legally 

harvested. Complaints regarding nuisance alligators are generally handled by State personnel and 

continue to be an issue that requires a considerable amount of time, especially in Baldwin and 

Mobile counties. Most nuisance complaints are in urbanized areas not open to public hunting. 

Changes being discussed for the 2013 season, if approved, would allow hunting in more urbanized 

areas of the Mobile Delta that have previously been closed. 

Arkansas - Kelly Irwin: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission continues to hold a limited 

harvest alligator sport hunt each year. The only substantial change since the last report was an 

increase in the annual maximum harvest rate to 48. However, the annual maximum harvest quota 

has not been filled since the inception of the hunt. The harvest quota change was based on available 

population survey data and is monitored annually with follow up post-harvest spotlight surveys to 

assess population impacts. The fourth alligator hunt in September 2010 led to 38 alligators being 

harvested of 40 permits issued. In 2010 the harvest quota was increased to 48, and 23 alligators 

were harvested. A total of 30 alligators were harvested in the 2012 sport hunt. Arkansas currently 

has no active alligator farmers. The agency does not anticipate any significant changes in its 

alligator management program in the foreseeable future, although the agency may be looking at 

increasing the number of alligator hunt permits to 60 in 2013.

Florida - Allan Woodward and Harry Dutton: The Florida population of the American alligator 

has been relatively stable over the past 25 years. Florida has three alligator harvest programs 

(nuisance, private lands, and statewide public lands), which account for the harvest of about 15,000- 

20,000 larger alligators per year. Skin prices have improved over the past several years, with skins 

reportedly selling for US$4-5/belly cm. Most remarkable though, is that alligator meat prices have 

nearly doubled over the last 1.5 years, with wholesale meat now selling for $US8/lb. Florida is 

expanding its statewide harvest program in 2013, which is a recreational hunt on public-access 

waters. This will increase the statewide harvest quota by approximately 1600 alligators, and will 

create additional hunting opportunities in this popular program. 

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is planning to open the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National 

Wildlife Refuge to a limited alligator hunt in 2013. The harvest quota will be 22 alligators from an 

estimated adult population of 606 within the area of the refuge proposed for hunting (the southern 

1/3 of the refuge). This represents about 3.6% of the adult population, which should be well below 

the sustainable harvest rate. National wildlife refuges typically allow hunting of deer, waterfowl, 

and other game species, and several refuges in Louisiana allow alligator hunting. However, alligator 

hunting has not been permitted in national wildlife refuges in Florida to this point. This initiative is 

part of an effort by the USFWS to increase hunting opportunities in national wildlife refuges. The 

proposed hunt has created some controversy among conservationists and other user groups who do 

not want alligator hunting on the refuge. 

Scientists in Florida continue research on wild alligators in Florida. Frank Mazzotti, Mike Cherkiss, 

and Brian Jeffery continue research on alligators in the greater Everglades ecosystem, focusing on 

the effects of Everglades restoration on alligator populations. James Nifong is nearing the end of 

this doctoral research on the feeding ecology of coastal alligators. Lou Guillette moved his research 

group from the University of Florida to the Medical University of South Carolina (Charleston) but 

his group is still doing endocrine system and contaminants research on alligators in Florida. The 

Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is conducting research on mercury levels in alligator meat, 

the effects of wild alligator harvest on populations, public attitudes about alligators, and nesting 

habitat suitability modeling. 

Georgia - Greg Waters: There were no new regulations for Georgia this year and have not had any 

changes in the management programs for the past several years. Georgia currently has around 5 

alligator farms, a nuisance alligator program and a wild alligator hunting season that allows 850 

selected hunters to harvest one alligator four feet or longer in total length. 

Louisiana - Ruth M. Elsey and Noel Kinler: Beginning late winter and continuing into spring and 

summer of 2009, worldwide economic recession significantly impacted world trade in raw and 

tanned alligator skins and manufactured products. Price and demand for farm-raised alligator skins 

dropped precipitously. This affected the alligator industry for all southeastern states; this coincided 

with tanners implementing stricter quality standards. Throughout this period many farmers were 

unable to sell any skins; several farmers exported skins for crust tanning and later sale. Two of the 

largest alligator skin tanneries in the world made recommendations to the Department and alligator 

industry participants, urging actions which would act to reduce existing inventories of both live onfarm 

alligators and alligator skins. In June 2009 many farmers decided to forego egg collections in 

the summer of 2009 (only 29,822 eggs were collected). Coastal flooding associated with a tropical 

weather event during July 2010 limited egg collections to 205,261 eggs in 2010. Since early 2010, 

price and demand for both wild and farm-raised alligators has continued to gradually rebound, with 

alligator egg and wild alligator harvests increasing in 2011 and 2012.

During the 2009 tag year a total of 301,017 farm alligators were harvested. Only 161,610 farmraised 

alligators were harvested during the 2010 tag year (September 2010 through August 2011) 

reflecting the lowered egg collections in 2009. Over 244,000 farm hides were sold in the 2011 tag 

year; with prices increasing to $US8.00/cm belly width; up from $US6.50/cm the year before and 

$US5.00/cm for the 2009 tag year. 

Year-end farm inventory increased from 376,493 alligators in December 2010 to 486,023 in 2011, 

and even further to 565,036 in 2012. Our peak year-end inventory was in December 2008, when 

731,909 alligators were being raised on farms, after two successive years of high egg collections. 

In 2012 we documented long-term survival of a farm-release alligator (12% of eggs hatched are 

released back to the wetlands from which eggs were collected as 3’-5’ juveniles). The alligator was 

released from a farm on 1 May 1992, and trapped in the wild harvest on 7 September 2012, over 20 

years later. 

The number of “sport” licenses sold for the wild harvest (the majority are non-Louisiana residents) 

averaged 142 per year from 2005-2009, and increased to 197 in 2010, to 374 licenses in 2011, and 

533 in 2012 due to increased interest in alligator hunting. The majority of licenses are commercial 

licenses (2051 licenses in 2010; 2590 licenses in 2011; and 2875 in 2012). In 2012 some 34,000 

wild alligators were harvested; prices increased from $US17.00/foot in 2011 to $US23.50/foot in 

2012. 

In order to streamline the alligator hide inspection process for validation prior to in-State tanning or 

export, the LDWF worked closely with the USFWS and manufacturers to develop, test, and 

implement the use of bar codes on CITES tags. This was started during 2008 and has proven to 

minimize the human errors associated with data entry errors during mandatory hide inspections. 

Some technical difficulties were encountered as expected as this new technology was initiated, but 

over time various scanners have been tested and reliable models selected for use. We did encounter 

a large number of defective CITES tags beginning in February 2012 wherein the locking 

mechanism appeared faulty. We worked closely with the USFWS to rectify this, had to recall 

unused CITES tags and re-inspect some 45,000 hides. The CITES Secretariat was notified such that 

overseas inspectors could be made aware the hides were legal in origin, despite higher than usual 

need for replacement tags. Few problems have occurred in 2013. 

In 2011, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine in 

conjunction with the Louisiana Alligator Farmers and Ranchers Association developed a document 

entitled “Best Management Practices for Louisiana Alligator Farming”. The document details 

recommended practices to ensure animal welfare of captive reared alligators in Louisiana, including 

egg collection, hatching, rearing, release to the wild and euthanasia. This document was updated in 

January 2013 and distributed to all farmers. 

Mississippi - Ricky Flynt: Mississippi offered its first public alligator hunting season in 2005. 

From 2005 until 2011, opportunities have expanded gradually to include 480 permits on portions of 

two major waterways, one coastal and one inland. In 2012, Mississippi expanded sport hunting 

opportunities on public waters to over two-thirds of the state. This has been a tremendous expansion 

compared to previous years. Two-thirds of the State was divided into 6 geographical zones with a 

total of 810 available lottery-based permits during a 10-day season. Each permittee is required to 

attend a mandatory alligator hunting training course provided by the Mississippi Department of 

Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks. Permit holders may harvest 2 alligators over 4’ long, only one of which 

may exceed 7’. In 2012, there were 513 alligators harvested on public waterways. Alligators over 7’ 

long comprised 52% of the harvest and 48% were less than 7’ long. Twenty-eight percent were

females. The average length of all harvested alligators was 7.89’ (males 8.42’, females 6.56’). 

Alligators that were 10’ or longer comprised 22.8% of harvest and 6.4% were over 12’. 

Private lands alligator hunting was also expanded from 25 counties in 2011 to 28 counties in 2012. 

There were 99 landowner applications approved for permits that totaled 237 available permits on 

20,417 acres of alligator habitat. There were 104 alligators harvested of which 30.7 were females. 

Average length of all harvested alligators was 8.25’. One individual alligator was officially 

recorded as the heaviest alligator ever taken in a hunting season in Mississippi at 697.5 pounds and 

13.08’ long. 

A research project titled, Spatial Dynamics and Population Estimation of the American Alligator 

(Alligator mississippiensis) in Riverine Systems of Mississippi, has been initiated in cooperation 

with the Mississippi State University, Wildlife and Fisheries Department. As of February 2013, 850 

radio-telemetry locations have been acquired on 19 adult male alligators during a 9-month period. 

An additional 11 adult male alligators are expected to be included in the study in 2013. The study 

intends to evaluate movements and resource use of adult male alligators in an inland riverine system 

and to generate population estimates, evaluate current alligator population survey methods and 

model influence of environmental covariates in alligator detection probabilities. 

North Carolina - Jeff Hall: In preparation for considering a possible alligator season in North 

Carolina, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is funding a study to determine if 

harvest of alligators in the state is sustainable. The work is being done in cooperation with NC State 

University. We completed presence/absence surveys across the coastal plain in 2012, to give us a 

good idea of where alligators are located. More intensive surveys are planned for 2013 to get a 

better idea of how many alligators are present. Additional work in NC on alligators is being 

conducted by Framingham State College looking into longevity, population density at the northern 

limit of the species, and relative efficacy of various survey methodologies. 

Oklahoma - Tim Patton and Robert Bastarache and Jarryd Robinson: Southeastern Oklahoma 

represents the approximate northwestern-most distribution of American alligators. They are listed as 

a state species of special concern, and take is prohibited. The Oklahoma population is restricted to a 

few counties in the extreme southeast corner of the State. Alligators outside of this range 

occasionally turn up in unlikely habitats (such as farm ponds) and are most likely associated with 

release of pets. Two areas in southeastern Oklahoma likely provide critical habitat for alligators: the 

Little River National Wildlife Refuge and Red Slough Wildlife Management Area. The State-wide 

population size has not been estimated, but based on anecdotal evidence and discussions among 

biologists, we believe it to be in the range of 100-300 individuals. A single nest/year has been 

detected in McCurtain County since 2005, though systematic searches for nests had not been 

conducted until 2012. We have hypothesized that winter conditions likely limit successful 

recruitment, especially among the youngest and smallest alligators. Our recent research efforts are 

summarized below: 

Overwinter Survival of Captive-Raised Juvenile Alligators. We used radio-telemetry to assess 

overwinter survival of captive-raised age-one and age-two alligators. During the winter of 2009- 

2010, we tracked 9 age-one alligators and two (22%) survived winter. During the winter of 2010- 

2011 we tracked 10 age-two alligators and at least 50% survived (50% lost transmitters or battery 

power), and we had no confirmed mortalities. However, inference is limited based on small sample 

sizes and the use of captive-raised alligators. 

Comprehensive Nest Searches and Nest Monitoring. During July and August 2012, we searched 

approximately 80% of available shoreline in Red Slough WMA and detected two nests. Both were 

monitored through parturition and yielded 12 and 6 hatchlings, respectively. We lost track of all

hatchlings from the smaller clutch almost right away, and do not know if it was from predation or 

movement. At least 9 of the original 12 (75%) survived the winter of 2012-2013. 

Refinement of Spotlight Survey Techniques. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation 

and the US Forest Service have conducted one spotlight survey/year since 2004. In a previous 

research effort, we determined that catch per unit effort (CPUE) values were highly variable. In 

2012, we conducted 6 spotlight surveys to see if within-year variability was also high, and we are 

repeating this effort during 2013. Preliminary results suggest that detection rates, based on CPUE, 

are relatively consistent within years, and we believe previous variability is due largely to 

inconsistent search effort. 

Future Research Efforts. Due to difficulty in obtaining the permits necessary to do alligator work, it 

is not likely that we will be able to conduct additional research aside from periodic spotlight surveys 

and nest monitoring. 

South Carolina - Jay Butfiloski: In 2012, Public alligator hunters took a total of 483 alligators 

during the public hunting season in South Carolina. The public hunting season consists of 4 hunt 

units in the coastal plain of South Carolina with 1200 harvest tags available (300 in each hunt unit). 

Hunters are chosen in a computerized lottery drawing with a preference system to ensure all hunters 

that continue to apply annually will eventually be chosen. In addition, two SC Department of 

Natural Resources' Wildlife Management Area (WMA) properties have limited alligator hunting 

and are included as a separate computerized drawing. The WMA alligator hunts allow two hunt 

parties each week (4 weeks total in the season) on each of the two WMAs to take one alligator 

during their selected hunt week. In addition, the selected WMA hunters have the option to purchase 

an additional "smaller" alligator tag that permits the take of another alligator from 1.22 m to 2.13 m 

(4'-7'). Thus, a total of 16 hunters have up to 32 WMA harvest tags available for the WMA alligator 

hunts. 

A total of 6562 hunters applied for the 2012 public hunt, and 321 hunters applied for the WMA 

hunt. 

In the Private Lands Program, landowners with significant amounts of alligator habitat can apply 

for harvest tags that are issued for use only on their specific property. Private Lands tags cannot be 

used on public waters. In 2012, 55 properties comprising 60,190 ha enrolled in the Private Lands 

Program. Collectively, 611 tags were issued and 296 alligators harvested. A minimum of 370 

alligators was taken in 2012 as nuisance animals in South Carolina. 

Long-term research is ongoing on growth and nesting females by Phil Wilkinson, Allan Woodward, 

and Thomas Rainwater. In addition, a new four-year research project under Dr. Kate McFadden of 

Clemson University and her newly-enrolled PhD student, Abby Lawson, will be analyzing trends in 

abundance and harvest rates from historical alligator data and will provide the South Carolina 

Department of Natural Resources with recommendations on future harvest scenarios and 

management strategies. 

Harvest statistics include 779 wild skins (nuisance alligators not included), averaging 2.56 m (or 

8.41'). 

Texas - Amos Cooper: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department revamped the Nuisance Alligator 

Program in 2012. Prospective Nuisance Control Permittees must submit an application, attend a 

class, pass a written exam and pay a fee before being issued a permit. Resident and Non-residents 

may apply to become a Nuisance Control Permittee. Permitted nuisance control hunters will be

allowed to contract directly with landowners for the removal of nuisance alligators. The permittee 

will still be allowed to retain, captured alligators and process or sell them. 

In 2012, Texas harvested 2188 wild skins with an average size of 7’. The wild skins are broken 

down as such: 1494 fall season, 117 management gators less than 6’, 123 public hunt, 256 nuisance 

alligators and 198 spring season. A total of 8909 farm alligators were harvested in 2012 with an 

average size of 24 cm belly width. Texas egg collectors collected a record 23,267 eggs during 2012 

with an additional 1529 captive eggs collected for a total of 24,796 eggs produced in Texas. We do 

not collect hatchlings in Texas. 

Prepared by: 

Regional Chairs, Ruth Elsey and Allan Woodward 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



South Asia & Iran Regional Report 

Report on Activities (2012-2013): 

Iran: (Asghar Mobaraki and Elham Abtin) 

The small population of Mugger crocodiles was supposed to be restricted to only some southeastern 

parts of Baluchestan Province, along the Sarbaz, Kajou and Bhookalat Rivers. But recent findings 

from field surveys indicate a population along the Nahang River also, which runs along the Iran- 

Pakistan border. There is very little information on the status and biology of the Mugger in the 

Nahang area, and more extensive research is needed to evaluate the current status of the population. 

It could be treated as a shared population between the countries, and thus requiring more 

cooperation for study and conservation. 

During the census conducted in May 2012, we counted 326 crocodiles directly in the main habitats 

in the southeast, and conducting surveys in the Nahang area is part of our plans. The main part of 

the Mugger population is in some key habitats, including Pishin Dam Reservoir (>100 sighted). 

Crocodiles have very close contact with human populations in the area, as most of the villages are 

along the rivers. Moreover, artificial ponds and water bodies used by people to store water, which 

are mostly inside the area of the villages, play an important role as habitats for crocodiles. Even 

though this situation increases the potential for HCC in form of attacks on livestock, in this unique 

situation, the people never harm the crocodiles and tolerate them, as they believe that they are part 

of nature. The Department of Environment has programs in place to compensate the losses to 

villagers, but this needs to be expanded. 

Regular seasonal studies are conducted each year to collect data on the ecology and current status of 

crocodiles, and results are published in the CSG Newsletters. Moreover, future programs on habitat 

protection and better management of crocodiles are planned. 

Natural disasters, especially flooding and drought, remain as the main natural threats to crocodiles 

and their habitats. To co-op with the situation, a nest rehabilitation and rearing center was 

established in the area, known as Riko Kash. Currently it is being used to keep crocodiles during 

emergency cases but we intend to commence crocodile breeding programs at the center in future. 

Improving local participation in works, public awareness and education, building working links 

with governmental bodies and regional cooperation are some plans underway. 

The crocodiles are categorized as legally protected species of the country and there is a fine for 

killing or harvesting of crocodiles. In order to increase the protection and support for crocodiles, the 

fine was increased from 32 million Rials to 100 million Rials (around $USD8140) in February 

2013. 

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Pakistan: (Abdul Aleem Chaudhry and Muhammad Hamza Aleemi) 

Year 2012-13 is marked with an increase in the establishment of crocodile/mugger (Crocodylus 

palustris) breeding facilities in the private sector in Sindh Province. The number of captive 

breeding farms increased from 8 up to 2011-12 to 16 in the current year. These farms are registered 

with the Wildlife Department Government of Sindh under the Sindh Wildlife Ordinance 1972. 

Commercial activities on the farms have not yet started as the breeding stocks have only recently 

been procured. The experience gained in the management of crocodile populations at Government 

Breeding Centers at Khar Captive Breeding Center near Karachi, and at Haleji Wildlife Sanctuary 

in Thatta District, has been useful in extending expertise to private breeding centers. Samzu 

Breeding Centre and Research Centre at Gadab, Karachi, has developed into the prime crocodile 

breeding facility. It is spread over 10 acres (4 ha) and presently houses 100+ Mugger adults/subadults 

and nearly 125 young ones. The habitat includes a large lake, marshy and swampy areas; 

around 40 egg-laying/hatching points and scientifically designed hatcheries that can hold up to 400 

individuals for at least 2 years. The facility is part of a Safari Park (spread over 12 ha) that attracts a 

large number of visitors from Karachi and suburbs. Jatoi Farm at Nau Shehroferroze has 50 adult 

Mugger in captivity. The oldest captive crocodile facility at Manghopir is thriving because of the 

legendary spiritual attachment of crocodiles with the patron saint. 

WWF Pakistan is working with village communities around Chhotiari Reservoir, one of the major 

crocodile habitats, where 66 crocodiles were reported during the last crocodile census in 2009 

(Chang 2009). Within the Chhotiari Reservoir area, Makhi forest is the prime habitat that supports 

the Muggers along with other wildlife species such as hog deer (Axis porcinus), smooth- coated 

otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) and a variety of resident and migratory birds. Makhi Development 

Organization (envisaging 6 villages in the vicinity) has been established in coordination with WWF 

Pakistan with the objective of helping in conservation of natural resources. The community protects 

the biodiversity and the natural habitats in the area. On 6 December 2012 a juvenile crocodile was 

found stranded in sugar cane fields in the village, probably swept into the irrigation channels. The 

animal was protected by activists of Makhi Development Organization who sought the help of 

WWF staff at Chhotiari. The juvenile was in a healthy condition and without any injuries. It was 

released the same day in the healthy and protected crocodile habitat in Chhotiari Reservoir near 

Ghulam Hussain Leghari village. The event was widely publicized to give a boost to the 

conservation of crocodiles in the province. 

The distribution and status of crocodiles was determined in Nara Desert Wildlife Sanctuary 

(NDWS) located in Khairpur District, Sindh (Chang et al. 2012). Of the 326 crocodiles reported 

from 19 wetlands in NDWS, 194 were adult, 91 were juveniles and 51were hatchlings. Major 

threats to the crocodile population in the area include: habitat degradation/destruction, hunting, 

shortage of water, deteriorating water quality and other anthropogenic factors. 

Deh Akro II Wildlife Sanctuary is another important conservation area for crocodiles. More than 28 

wetlands in the area support 169 crocodiles (Chang 2009). 

The Manghopir Shrine near Karachi houses about 200 crocodile that are considered sacred (Chang, 

pers. comm.), and so are not allowed to be relocated to other captive breeding facilities. They are 

however not scientifically managed. 

The Mugger remains widely distributed in Balochistan Province, with confirmed locations on the 

Nari, Hab, Titiani, Hingol and Dasht Rivers and Nahang and Kach Kuar. WWF has been supporting 

community conservation programs in areas around the Dasht River, where a sizeable Mugger 

population was reported in at least 21 seepage water pools until 2012. At least 3 instances of 

crocodile killing were reported from the area in 2012. The killings were considered to be retaliatory,

as the dead crocodiles were left in the ponds implying that they were not killed to gain commercial 

benefits. The situation in the Hingol River (Hingol National Park) was also considered stable (50 

Mugger reported by Conservator Research Balochistan, pers. comm.). Surveys have however not 

been conducted recently in other areas of Balochistan. 

Natural crocodile populations have been wiped out from within Punjab. The only captive crocodile 

facility is the Wildlife Breeding Centre Faisalabad. The centre currently houses 4 mugger [one 18- 

20 year-old adult male, one 6-8 year-old juvenile, and 2 unidentified young ones]. A 9-year-old 

female actively guarded eggs laid in May 2012. When hatchlings did not appear after 90 days, the 

eggs were dug out and found to be infertile. This female was found dead on the morning of 20 

August 2012, with physical injuries on her snout and legs, considered to have been caused by the 

male. A 2-year-old juvenile died of Adenovirus infection. 

Chang, M.S. (2009). Status of Marsh Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) in Sindh, Pakistan. M. Phil. Thesis, Department 

of Zoology, Sindh University, Jamshoro, Sindh. 

Chang, M.S., G.S. Gachal, A.H. Qadri, T. Jabeen, S. Baloach, and M.A. Shaikh (2012). Distribution and status of 

Marsh Crocodile, Crocodylus palustris, in Nara Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Sindh Pakistan. Sindh Univ. Res. Jour. 

(Sci. Ser.) 44 (3): 453-456. 

Sri Lanka: (Ruchira Somaweera) 

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The 2012-13 period saw a reawakening in activities on several aspects related to crocodiles. 

Advances have been made both in research and conservation-oriented programs. 

Population studies 

An island-wide survey on the status of Crocodylus porosus and C. palustris, and their habitats 

(initiated in 2009) was completed in 2012. Crocodile counts and habitat assessments were recorded 

during structured field surveys while a verbal questionnaire was administered to victims of 

crocodile attacks. Special attention was given to survey the populations of C. palustris in the dry 

zone of Sri Lanka and assess the condition of tanks (man-made lakes) and other mugger habitats. 

Approximately 120 tanks in the dry zone were investigated, where Muggers were common in the 

past. While the data have yet to be analysed in detail, preliminary findings show that fishing 

activities were conducted in 72% tanks and human encroachment (buildings and walls) was observed 

at around 89% of the tanks. Yet ~55% of tanks still contained reasonable forest cover on at least one 

side of the tank. Mugger burrows were observed in 28% of the tanks (indicating occupancy) while 

crocodile attacks had taken place in 28% of the tanks (de Silva 2012). Concurrent studies were 

carried out to assess the structure and condition of 103 mugger burrows from various parts of 

country (Rathnasiri et al. 2013). The major threats to crocodiles identified during the surveys 

include destruction and degradation of nesting a living habitats, killing crocodiles out of fear, as a 

precaution against future attacks and for meat, fishery-related mortality (over 200 crocodiles alone 

are estimated to have been killed in the last year), drying out of aquatic habitats and unplanned 

relocations such as releasing Saltwater crocodiles in optimal Mugger habitats. It is felt that upon 

analysing the results of these projects a fairly comprehensive set of data will emerge on various 

aspects of the crocodiles of the country. 

Surveys for crocodiles have also taken place in the five districts of the Northern Province. The 

presence of crocodiles was confirmed by direct observation or by investigating scats, pug marks or 

foot prints and drag marks during the day, and spotlighting at night. Several new locations with 

healthy Mugger populations were discovered (Sivaruban and de Silva 2013). Of the 71 locals

interviewed, 86% did not know of any ecological importance of crocodiles; only 21% were aware 

of crocodiles in the area and informed that crocodile were killed due to attacks on humans. 

Local CSG members identified the important role the officers of the Department of Wildlife 

Conservation of Sri Lanka (DWC) working in national parks (especially Yala, Bundala, Wilpattu, 

Udawalwe etc.) could play in conducting crocodile research and monitoring programs, and has 

informed the DWC about the potential ways the CSG could aid in developing long-term projects in 

collaboration with the DWC. 

The National Red List of Sri Lanka for 2012 evaluated C. palustris as Near Threatened (NT) and C. 

porosus as Endangered (EN), the latter based on criteria B2ab(iii) (Ministry of Environment 2012). 

An annotated bibliography of the crocodiles of Sri Lanka is also in preparation (A. de Silva, pers. 

comm.). 

Surveys on human-crocodile issue 

Several surveys on crocodile attacks and HCC conflict in Sri Lanka were initiated in 2012. In one 

study conducted at the Borupana area (Western Province) as a part of a larger survey on the 

crocodiles of the region, Madawala et al. (2013) made noteworthy observations of fishermen killing 

8 crocodiles for food during the 11-month study period. Of the 84 villagers interviewed, 74% had 

eaten meat of C. porosus and 45% has eaten eggs. A significant portion of the adult villagers (96%) 

did not know of any ecological significance of crocodiles and 89% of them have killed crocodiles at 

some point. However, the study found contrasting trends in the opinions of the younger generation 

(

killed in Ragama (Western Province) due to excessive internal damages from a hook that was used 

to catch it received wide publicity in the media. The DWC has suggested a crocodile holding 

facility to be erected at Bellanwila-Attidiya Marsh (previously planned to be located at 

Muthurajawela) to keep problem crocodiles in captivity. Currently the boundaries for the facility are 

being demarcated and the government authorities are collaborating with the private landowners in 

the area. 

As another solution to HCC, physical barriers in the form of Crocodile Exclusion Enclosures 

(CEEs) are gaining popularity, especially along the Nilwala River. CEEs known in Sinhala 

language as ‘kimbul kotuwa’, have being used since the early days in this region to prevent attacks 

by C. porosus, and the Disaster Management Center of Matara has erected over 30 new CEEs in the 

Matara area over the last year. 

A study on introducing CEEs to the dry zone (where attacks from C. palustris take place), and 

assessing their efficiency was conducted in 2012 with the funding from the Chicago Zoological 

Society’s Board of Trade Endangered Species Fund. CEEs were installed in three regions (covering 

over 10 villages) with the help of the communities and two Knowledge Attitude and Practice (KAP) 

surveys, one pre-construction and the other after six months post-construction (100 participants 

each) was conducted to measure the success of the programs as well as to understand the limitations 

and suggestions for improvement. The study indicates that building physical barriers to segregate 

the two components and concurrent development of a positive attitude towards crocodiles through 

awareness programs are essential actions in reducing the HCC in Sri Lanka. Preliminary analysis of 

results shows that there is a significant increase in the frequency and duration of use of water 

resources by villages and also a positive attitude change towards crocodiles. No crocodile attacks on 

humans or killing of crocodiles by humans were reported from the areas since the CEEs were 

constructed, whereas three crocodile attacks (one fatal) and at least 7 crocodile deaths were reported 

the year before (Somaweera and de Silva 2012). 

In a comprehensive letter to the relevant government institutes, local CSG members indicated that 

though the severity of the ‘human-crocodile conflict’ is marginal and localized compared to other 

human-wildlife conflicts in the island, crocodile attacks do result in costs to both humans (social, 

economic and political) and the crocodiles (retaliatory actions on crocodiles include killing, 

inhumane treatment and ad-hoc translocation into new and less suitable habitats). The letter 

suggested a multi-step strategy to mitigate the conflict and discussed the following aspects: 1) need 

for estimating the factors and scale of ‘conflict’, and assess local attitudes towards crocodiles; 2) 

need for investigating spatial and temporal aspects of the crocodile populations in high conflict 

areas; and, 3) ascertaining likely solutions to reduce the human-crocodile issue including public 

awareness campaigns, physical barriers, development of access to water and, sound strategies to 

remove ‘problem crocodiles’. 

Public awareness programs and media campaigns by local CSG members and other environmental 

groups have arguably resulted in the general public being more aware of crocodiles. Crocodiles are 

also emerging as iconic species in eco-tourism programs in Sri Lanka, with Buttuwa Wewa in Yala 

National Park identified as holding one of the highest concentrations of C. palustris (de Silva 

Wijeyeratne 2013). Several seminars on crocodiles have taken place over the last year (eg 

University of Peradeniya, Young Zoologists Association, etc.) and Sri Lanka will host the World 

Crocodile Conference (under the theme ‘Living with Crocodilians’) and the 22nd Working Meeting 

of the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group. 

de Silva, A. 2012. Crocodile psychosis. Proceedings of the Conference on Herpetological Conservation and Biology. 

University of Peradeniya. p 4.

de Silva Wijeyeratne. G. 2013. A winner in the wilds. Sunday Times: Sri Lanka. Sunday Times Plus. Page 3. Sunday 13 

January 2013. http://www.sundaytimes.lk/130113/plus/a-winner-in-the-wilds-28039.html 

Madawala, M.B., Kumarasinghe, A., Amarasinghe , A.A.T. and Karunarathna, D.M.S.S. 2013. Current conservation 

status of Crocodylus porosus from Borupana Ela and its hinterlands in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. Abstracts presented 

at the World Crocodile Conference. May 2013, Negombo, Sri Lanka. 

Ministry of Environment. 2012. The National Red List 2012 of Sri Lanka; Conservation Status of the Fauna and Flora. 

Ministry of Environment, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 

Rathnasiri, G.W.R.P., de Silva, A. and Gabrial, A. 2013. Mugger burrows: Preliminary investigations into the unique 

tunnels excavated by Crocodylus palustris in Sri Lanka. Abstracts presented at the World Crocodile Conference. 

May 2013, Negombo, Sri Lanka. 

Samarasinghe, D.J.S. 2013. Human- Crocodile Conflict in Nilwala River: A Social Science Perspective. Abstracts 

presented at the World Crocodile Conference. May 2013, Negombo, Sri Lanka. 

Sivaruban, A. and Anslem de Silva, A. 2013. Preliminary observations of the status of crocodiles and peoples attitudes 

towards crocodiles in the Northern Province Sri Lanka. Abstracts presented at the World Crocodile Conference. 

May 2013, Negombo, Sri Lanka. 

Somaweera, R. and de Silva, A. 2012. Using traditional knowledge to minimize human-crocodile conflict and conserve 

crocodiles in Sri Lanka. Final report to Chicago Zoological Society/ Chicago Board of Trade Endangered Species 

Fund. 

Vijaya Anand, V., Senadheera, S. and Rupatunge, T. 2013. A View on Crocodiles Captured from Anthropogenic 

Habitat in Western Province. Abstracts presented at the World Crocodile Conference. May 2013, Negombo, Sri 

Lanka. 

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Nepal (Maheshwar Dhakal, Shant Raj Jnawali and Naresh Subedee) 

The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is confined to the lower stretches of theb Rapti, Rew, Narayani, 

Babai and Karnali River systems. It is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN and is 

protected under the NPWC Act, 1973. To assess status and distribution of Gharial, regular surveys 

were conducted in the Rapti, Narayani, Babai and Karnali Rivers in 2011 and 2013 respectively. 

The highest Gharial observation is used for size classification. Altogether, 124 gharials of all size 

classes were observed in the Rapti (45), Narayani (63), Babai (14) and Karnali (2) Rivers - an 

increase of 22 Gharial compared to 2011. Beside perennial river systems, Gharial are also 

occasionally reported from several oxbow lakes and Mohana River in Kailali District. Distribution 

of the species is more localized within few segments of the rivers surveyed. Dudhaura, Charhara 

areas in Rapti and Khoriyamuhan in Narayani Rivers and Ghamandi Taal and Parewaodar in Babai 

River are identified as the potential sites for Gharial. 

Ex-situ conservation and re-stocking program for Gharial is a major conservation effort led by the 

Government of Nepal. To upgrade, ex-situ conservation measures, Department of National Parks 

and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) is managing the Gharial Conservation Breeding Center 

(GCBC) in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. The breeding center was established to secure 

second pool of genetic stock against probable catastrophic diseases. Since 1981, 881 Gharials have 

been released into different river systems in Nepal. DNPWC together with conservation partners 

has implemented several activities to support Gharial conservation including river rangers and 

alternative livelihood programs. The alternative livelihood program is targeted to river-dependent 

communities while the river rangers program has been able to keep a track on species sightings, 

rescue entangled Gharials and take timely actions against defaulters. However, both programs need 

to be better targeted and scaled up to achieve the Gharial conservation goals.

Despite these commendable conservation efforts by the Government of Nepal and its partners, 

maintaining a healthy Gharial population in the wild continues to remain a major conservation 

challenge. The pressure of excessive sand mining, boulder mining, cattle grazing and waste 

pollution still persists in all river systems. The excessive encroachment of sand banks along 

Narayani River has affected Gharial basking and nesting behaviours. The dams and barrages 

constructed on the borders of Nepal and India are proving impassable barriers to the species. These 

issues need urgent attentions from all concerned for banning actions that are detrimental to Gharial 

survival. This national report thoroughly examines the current status and distribution of Gharial, 

conservation threats and efforts made in Nepal, and provide prudent mechanism to ensure the long 

term survival of this critically endangered animal. 

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India [Raju Vyas and B. C. Chudhary (with valuable inputs from Tarun Nair, MCBT, Asager 

Nawab (WWF-India), Subir Chowfin (Corbett National Park) and Sudhakar Kar] 

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) 

Estimation of Wild Population: 2000+ (Chambal 550; Katerinaghat 500;Hastinapur 250; Gandak 

50; Corbett 100; Ken and Son Rivers 30; other population main Ganges, Hugli 50 and Mahandi 10) 

Captive Stock: 1500 (Gharial rearing centers) 

Distribution: India (Chambal, Son, Ken and Mahanadi Rivers; Katerniaghat Sanctuary) 

Status: Critical Endangered 

Last two years 130 Gharial nests recorded in two protected areas; Chambal and Katreniyaghat 

Wildlife Sanctuary (100+ nests) and Katerniyaghat Sanctuary (29 nests). 

The need for an Action plan for the critically endangered Gharial in India and the trans-boundary 

neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Pakistan may need to be considered. 

India may be addressed to provide and facilitate surplus stocks of Gharials from India to be 

provided to neighboring countries. 

The Gharial is critically endangered in the wild and over 1500 animals of various sizes in captivity. 

It is now being bred in India by a number of captive facilities, including the Madras Crocodile Bank 

Trust, Chennai, Nanadan Kanan Zoo, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur Zoo Jaipur, Gwalior Zoo, Gwalior, 

Patna Zoo, Patna, Kukrail, Lucknow and a few other zoos supported by the Central Zoo Authority, 

Delhi to upgrade their display and breeding enclosures. Without a proper plan for the future of the 

bred and reared Gharial, most of the zoos are planning to destroy the eggs (to control population in 

ex-situ conservation). Some policy decision is required on this. 

Ongoing Activity 

The tri-state National Chambal Sanctuary Management Plan has been ready prepared by the expert 

committee formed by the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India in which 

included two three members are the crocodile expert. 

MCBT/GCA: Radio tracking ongoing work on Gharials in Chambal and surveys other rivers for the 

determining Gharial status, Kan and Son Rivers.

The Bihar Forest and Wildlife Department in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India are 

planning a reintroduction release of Gharials in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve. 

The Forest Department, Uttar Pradesh and WWF-India released Gharials in Hastinapur Sanctuary 

and project monitoring work continuing, there were 500 Gharials released and monitoring sighted 

250 of these animals. 

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department is also planning reintroduction release of about a 10-15 

sub-adult Gharials into Ken Gharial Sanctuary adjoining the Panna Tiger Reserve (GCA/MCBT is 

currently monitoring Ken habitat and status of species). 

An annual population assessment of the Gharial in the Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh section of the 

National Chambal Sanctuary has been completed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department. 

A trans-boundary critically endangered species Management Program is under planning as joint 

countries programmed by Indian and Nepalese Governments, as the Chitawan National Park in 

Nepal and Valmiki Tiger reserve in India is being planned as a long-term project. 

A possible reintroduction of Gharial in the Sutlej River in the Indus Basin is being planned by the 

WWF-India and Punjab Forest Department. 

A survey of some of the tributaries of Brahmaputra River in northeast India has been completed by 

Aranyaka, a wildlife NGO based at Guwahati. 

An assessment of the Gharial population and its breeding status in Corbett National Park and 

Ramaganga River has been conducted by Subir Chowfin. 

Future actions 

1. Taking Gharial in Brahmaputra and Indus River basin 

2. Developing management plan for other Gharial supporting areas 

3. Concrete plan for future of captive Gharials 

Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) 

Estimation of animals in wild: 2000+ at three locatios - Andaman (Andaman and Nicobar Is.), 

Sundarvan (West Bengal) and Bhitar Kanika (Orissa) 

Captive Stock: over 500-600 at West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh MCBT and Andaman and 

Nicobar 

Distribution: East coast of India from Orissa to Sundarvan, West Bengal and Andaman Nicobar 

Status: Endangered 

The first ever Saltwater Crocodile population assessment exercise conducted in January 2012 in 

Sundarvan by Forest Department of West Bengal (under supervision and guidance of B.C. 

Choudhury and Tarun Nair) 

The Orissa Forest Department has also completed the annual Saltwater Crocodile population 

assessment and HCC situation assessment in the Bhitar Kanika Wildlife Sanctuary under the 

guidance of Dr Sudhakar Kar.

The Andaman and Nicobar Forest Department is planning to initiate a Saltwater Crocodile 

population assessment and a tagging study to monitor the movement and habitat use pattern of 

captured HCC areas involved C. porosus. Advice of CSG members has been requested. 

The Andaman Forest Department has captured several large C. porosus from the wild after 

assessing the HCC situations and are planning a radio/satellite tagging study of released individuals. 

Future Action 

1. Joint trans-boundary Saltwater Crocodile population assessment in Sundarvan (large mangrove 

habitat forest), involving of CSG members from India and Bangladesh 

Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) 

Estimation of Wild Population: 4500+ animals of various sizes in many Indian States. 

Captive Stock: 5000+ 

Distribution: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala Uttarakhand, 

Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Goa, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh 

Status: Vulnerable 

HCC reports are being reported increasingly from various states of India, led by Gujarat and a few 

other states. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Andaman, 

Orissa and West Bengal are reporting HCC as a specific area of concern to be addressed. An action 

plan to address this issue is urgently required. 

Gujarat Forest Department and Vadodara Municipal Corporation, Vadodara, are planning to 

develop a ‘Refuge Park’ for large and “culprit” Muggers in Vadodara. This joint proposal was 

submitted for further permit from MoEF, GOI. The proposal is pending with CZA, New Delhi. 

Future Research Incentives: 

1. A nationwide status survey and assessing present status of all three crocodilian species, 

including G. gangeticus, C. porosus and C. palustris 

2. A nationwide database should be created/maintained regarding HCC on two species, namely 

Mugger and Saltwater crocodile. 

3. A satellite monitoring study is required on the most critically endangered species G. 

gangeticus, especially in trans-boundary habitats and other protected areas of the species. 

4. An urgent need to formulate an action plan for all three crocodilian species. 

5. Formulate a protocol for rescue and release of mugger crocodile, especially for HCC 

indentified Indian states, and strict adherence by the State Forest Department. 

Bangladesh (S.M.A. Rashid) 

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Gavialis gangeticus: 

With support from the Muhamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZ) a survey on the 

occurrence of Gharials was conducted from November 2009 to October 2010, and using own

esources from January 2011 to December 2011 in the Padma and the Jamuna Rivers in Bangladesh 

by the Centre for Advanced Research in Natural Resources & Management (CARINAM). Reports 

have been submitted to the MBZ. An adult female was observed at the confluence of the Mahananda 

and Padma Rivers and 9 young gharials were captured in fishing nets during 2009-2010, and 7 

young gharials during 2010-2011. All but two were later released back into the river, with the two 

Gharials captured in 2009-10 being brought to the Dhaka Zoo and Rajshahi Zoo respectively – both 

died later. Surveys were continued by CARINAM from its own resources and in November 2010- 

October 2011, 7 young gharials were captured by fishermen in their nets, 5 of which were released in 

the rivers where they were caught. Two Gharials captured in the Padma River were brought to the 

Endangered Reptiles Captive Breeding & Rehabilitation Centre established by CARINAM with 

support from the Forest Department at the Bhawal National Park, Gazipur District (ca. 45 km north 

of Dhaka). CARINAM is continuing awareness activities among the fishermen communities and in 

villages close to the rivers for protecting the Gharials, freshwater turtles and Asian River Dolphins 

(Platanista gangeticus). 

Samples from 5 of the captured Gharials were collected for analysis to establish microsatellite DNA 

markers of Gharials in the Bangladesh population. MBZ is supporting this CARINAM project. 

Samples from the captive Gharials in different zoos could not yet be collected due to bureaucratic 

red tape in getting permission from the Zoo authorities under the Ministry of Fisheries and 

Livestock. Department of Fisheries and Genetics of the Bangladesh Agricultural University is 

providing technical and laboratory support to CARINAM. Research is still ongoing. 

As of April 2013, there were 12 captive Gharial (1.5.6) in zoos [Dhaka Zoo (4 adults), Bhawal NP (2 

juveniles), Rangpur Zoo (4 juveniles), Rajshahi Zoo (2 adults)]. 

Crocodylus palustris: 

The Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali shrine pond at Bagerhat still has one of the Muggers from the original 

wild stock. One of the oldest females died on 27 January 2005 and the males died in 2011. 

Crocodiles that were brought from MCBT in 2004 were distributed in different zoos of the country. 

Several of the crocodiles have bred and the numbers have increased, particularly at the Dulahazra 

Safari Park (DSF), Cox’s Bazaar and Dhaka Zoo. DSF had 18 adults, three of which have been 

shifted to the newly established Gazipur Safari Park (GSF). DSF had 8 hatchlings of which 3 died 

last year and now has only 5 hatchlings. 

There had been two incidents of HCC at the shrine pond (26 June and 18 July 2011) and these were 

by the Saltwater Crocodile that was released there as a young animal and has now grown large. It 

was suggested to authorities were to remove the saltie, but neither the District administration nor the 

Forest Department have taken any initiative. 

As of April 2013, there were 52 (8.21.23) captive Muggers in zoos [Dhaka Zoo (1.2 adults, 12 

juveniles), Dulahazra Safari Park (4.11 adults, 5 juveniles), Khan Jahan Ali Shrine (1.2 adults), 

Karamjal Crocodile Ranching Centre (1.1 adults), Chittagong Zoo (1.1 adults, 6 juveniles), 

Jahanabad Cantonment Zoo (0.3 adults), Pashurampur, Noakhali (0.1 adult)]. 

Crocodylus porosus: 

A proposal to survey C. porosus in the Sunderbans has been shortlisted for funding under the 

IDA/World Bank funded ‘Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Wildlife Protection” project 

administered by the Forest Department. The 3-year project will presumably be launched in July 

2013. One of the outcomes of this project will be the assessment of the crocodile population in its 

natural habitat - the Sunderbans.

Two incidents were reported where C. porosus were captured by fishermen in their nets outside the 

Sunderbans - one at Mehediganj (1 December 2010) and the other at Bhola. Both animals were 

killed. Out of the blue one C. porosus was found in a pond within Dhaka city on 27 February 2007, 

presumed to have been kept illegally by someone and released at night. It was later taken to the 

Dulahazra Safari Park by the Forest Department. 

Two specimens (SVL ± 2 m) captured from the Sunderbans are kept in the newly established 

Gazipur Safari Park located about 70 km north of Dhaka. At present the conditions are appalling but 

measures are being taken to provide adequate space and improve husbandry conditions. 

Eighteen juvenile crocodiles went missing from the Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Centre, Sunderbans 

on 22 November 2009 during a cyclone that hit the coastal areas. Only four were recovered. The C. 

porosus population has been declining at a steady rate in the Sunderbans due to habitat loss, 

increased human activities and poaching. To allow the population to recover, 68 Saltwater 

Crocodiles have so far been released in different canals of Sundarbans from Karamjal Breeding 

Centre in four phases. The Centre has more than 200 crocodiles of different ages (Abdur Rob, pers. 

comm. 2013). 

The Divisional Forest Officers for Sunderbans (East) in Bagerhat and Sunderbans (West) in Khulna 

were contacted and the Sunderbans (West) office visited to look for any old records of any HCC in 

the Sunderbans, but no records were found. This was surprising! 

As of April 2013, there were 17 captive Saltwater Crocodiles (5.7.5) in zoos [Jahanabad Cantonment 

Zoo (1 adult male), Dhaka Zoo (1.2? adults), Dulahazra Safari Park (3.5 adults), Gazipur Safari Park 

(5 juveniles)]. 

Commercial activities: 

The first commercial crocodile farm - Reptiles Farm Limited - was established in 2004. In 2011 it 

exported 69 Saltwater Crocodiles of different ages and sizes to the Heidelberg University for 

research. At present the farm has 56 adults (12.34) and almost 1500 animals of different ages and is 

expecting to export 500 skins this year. Further another 300 hatchlings are under process of being 

imported from Malaysia. 

Two other commercial farms have also come up in the last few years - Akij Wildlife Farm (AWF) 

and Shahpuri Crocodile Farm (SCF). These two farms, adjacent to each other, are located in 

Bandarban District. AWF has already started its operation while SCF is uncertain. AWF brought 50 

adult crocodiles (19.31) from a farm in Sarawak, Malaysia, on 3 August 2010. Three females died 

for unknown reasons. The crocodiles started breeding the following year, with three females laying 

over 100 eggs in June 2011 and eggs hatched in September 2011. The present status is not known as 

the AWF is suffering from lack of skilled staff for maintenance and husbandry. 

At least three more applications are with the Forest Department awaiting permission for establishing 

commercial crocodile farms. 

Prepared by: Anslem de Silva, with input from Regional Vice Chairs 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Australia and Oceania Regional Report 


Three species of crocodilian are endemic to the Australia/Oceania region; Crocodylus porosus, C. 

novaeguineae (Papua New Guinea only), C. johnstoni (Australia only). 

Australia (Northern Territory): A review of the management program for C. porosus was recently 

completed, and provides a roadmap for management of C. porosus into the future. 

Three attacks (2 of which were fatal) at the end of 2013 occurred in remote areas, and involved 

indigenous people, highlighting the need for public education in such areas. Two non-fatal attacks 

occurred in April 2013, one in Nhulunbuy, and one in Darwin Harbour. The Darwin Harbour attack 

is the second attack since 1971 - some 230 C. porosus were removed as “problem crocodiles” from 

the harbour in 2012. 

No response has been received from the Federal Government on the NT’s proposed trial trophy 

hunting. 

Australia (Queensland): Edward River Crocodile Farm, situated at Pormpuraaw, Cape York, 

Australia’s first crocodile farm (established in 1969), has gone into receivorship. It is unclear 

whether this will impact on the possible wild harvest of C. porosus egg that potentially could 

provide community development and employment incentives for the local Pormpuraaw 

Community. 

Papua New Guinea: The crocodile farming industry continues to focus on C. porosus, although 

wild harvesting involves both C. porosus and C. novaeguineae. Monitoring of C. porosus and C. 

novaeguineae populations in the Sepik River indicates increasing trends for both species. Loss of 

habitat due to introduced fish species is a potential threat. 

East Timor: The East Timorese Government has formed a Crocodile Task Force to improve 

knowledge and experience in managing crocodile populations. However, there has been little 

communication from the country. Management options are constrained to a degree by the cultural 

importance of crocodiles to the East Timorese people. 

Solomon Islands: HCC continues to be a major issue, with increasing political pressure on 

Government to address the problem. 

Prepared by: 

Charlie Manolis, Regional Chair 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Europe 


The African Crocodile Survey database (www.crocsurveys.net) has been updated and improved 

with new data from Africa and it now works on all major browsers. 

Prepared by: 

Jon Hutton 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Latin America & Caribbean Regional Report 

Report on the Mission to Colombia and Venezuela, November 2012 (Alejandro Larriera) 

COLOMBIA VISIT (Coordinated by Sebastian Restrepo, Sergio Medrano and Alejandro Larriera) 

I arrived to Bogotá on 6 November at noon, and I have my first meeting that afternoon with our 

CSG representative Sergio Medrano in order to organize the agenda for the next day. On 7 

November in the morning, I met with Juan Carlos Vasquez from the CITES Secretariat and we went 

together to the Palacio San Carlos for a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Ministry (Cancilleria). 

There we had a meeting with Claudia Vasquez, Marta Pereira from Cancilleria, Antonio Gómez 

from the Ministry of Environment, and Maria Piedad Rodríguez from Von Humboldt Institute. CSG 

member Giovanni Ulloa was also present there, as the main topic was the proposed C. acutus 

downlisting. In my opinion the meeting was very productive, as Giovanni clarified most of the 

concerns about the proposal. 

Juan Carlos Vasquez, Sebastián Restrepo, Sergio Medrano and Maria Piedad Rodríguez shared a 

lunch invited by the Director of the Von Humboldt Institute, Juan Guillermo Brigitte Baptiste. In 

the afternoon we had a technical meeting at the Institute where it was also present Antonio Gomez 

from the Ministry of Environment, so it was a good opportunity for clarification on the issues of 

C.c. fuscus (scar button, certification, and size limits). We also evaluated Doc. 26 from the last 

CITES SC62, which include C.c. fuscus, where Juan Vasquez from CITES was very clear about the 

extent and possible implication of the implementation of that document. Of course we went back to 

the C. acutus proposal as CSG member Giovanni Ulloa it was also there. I am now processing the 

records that Antonio Gomez provided me on the exportations in 2011, and the resolutions that 

actually they are enforcing in Colombia. 

Finally, in the evening, Juan Carlos Vasquez; Sergio Medrano and I, meet with CSG member Jorge 

Saieh who was worried about the C. acutus downlisting proposal. 

VENEZUELA VISIT (Coordinated by Alvaro Velasco) 

I arrived to Caracas (Venezuela), on 8 November at noon. In the afternoon I had a meeting with: 

Mr. Amadeus Fernandez, Presidente de Comercial Fernandez & Fernandez, who is currently the 

main skin exporter in Venezuela. He expressed his concern about the high taxes for the activity in 

Venezuela, which is clearly the main reason for the decline of the exportations of Caiman 

crocodilus during the last years. Of course this is an internal issue there, so nothing to do about it. 

On the morning of 9 November I had a meeting with Lic. Edis Solorzano Directora de 

Conservacion and Lic. Alexis Rengifo Director de Aprovechamiento, Oficina Nacional de 

Diversidad Biologica del Ministerio del Poder Popular del Ambiente. It was a productive meeting 

where we talked about the C acutus and C intermedius conservation programs, and the Caiman 

crocodilus harvest program. I informed them about the CSG’s grants program.

On the afternoon of that day, I had a meeting with Lic. Omar Hernandez, Director de FUDECI, an 

NGO that is now leading the C. intermedius releasing program at Hato Masaguaral. Following in 

the same place, we had a meeting with Lic. Ricardo Babarro (croc researcher), and students from 

the Universidad Central de Venezuela, Facultad de Ciencias, Escuela de Biologia, Ingrid Marquez, 

Indira Rodriguez, Carlos Monasterios y Juan Carlos Amilibia. All of them are currently looking for 

subjects to study on their graduation thesis. I explained everyone what is the purpose of the CSG, 

how they can help, and what we can do. The grants were also the most relevant issue here. 

  

REGIONAL REPORTS 

Argentina (Information provided by Carlos Piña) 

Argentina is still waiting for the downlisting of the broad snouted caiman from ESA of USA, which 

was expected last March, but it is again delayed by the USFWS. 

In the mean time the Herpetological Society of Argentina has downlisted Caiman latirostris and C. 

yacare to non-vulnerable category, the best scenario possible within the Argentinean legislation, 

based on the improvement of knowledge in both species based on the information provided by the 

ranching programs, principally from Santa Fe province. The Herpetological Society of Argentina 

recognized that the sustainable use of both species of crocodilians under the ranching technique has 

proved to have a minimum impact on wild populations and has put a new value on the wetlands 

inhabited by these reptiles [more information in Prado et al. (2012). Categorización del estado de 

conservación de los caimanes (yacarés) de la República Argentina. Cuad. herpetol. 26 (Supl. 1): 

403-410]. 

Paraguay (Information provided by Carlos Piña) 

Former National Authority from Paraguay and CSG member informed that the stockpiles were not 

sold yet, and only a few leathers were sold, mostly in the internal market. On 21 April there was an 

election in Paraguay; as a result there was a change in the government, since the new authorities 

belong to another party. 

Uruguay (Information provided by Carlos Piña) 

We were informed that the owners of the touristic Caiman latirostris farm at Cerros Azules near 

Punta del Este have decided to close it. 

Bolivia (Information compiled by Alfonso Llobet) 

Caiman yacare wild harvest program: From 2003 to 2009, the number of authorized hunted 

caimans remained between 42,000 to 47,000 individuals per year, with the highest quota in 2008 

(47,513 individuals). The authorized harvest quota of caimans for the 2010 and 2011 years was set 

at 41,578 individuals.According to updated information provided by National Authorities 

(Biodiversity Direction-DGBAP), harvest quota for 2012 was set at 40,372 individuals (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Authorized harvest quota of Caiman yacare in Bolivia, 2003 to 2011. 

According to DGBAP, approximately 85% of the national quota is still supported by specific 

management plans (Figure 2): 

• 16 indigenous lands (Takana I, Takana III, More, Joaquiniano, Sirionó, Canichana, Movima I y 

II, Cayubaba, Baures, Itonama, TIM, TIMI, Chacobo Pacahuara, Cavineño, Multietnico II). 

• 3 protected areas (ANMI San Matías, PD-ANMI Itenez, Otuquis) 

• 1 Municipality (Loreto) 

Some of these management plans are currently being updated to renew the harvesting authorization. 

Figure 2: Areas registered within the Caiman yacare wild harvest program. Green polygons represent areas with 

management plans, and red polygons represent areas with no management plan, but working directly under supervision 

of Departmental Governments within the national yacare program (Source: DGBAP).

Under the new strategy to support and to strength the participation of indigenous territories in the 

national yacare program, the National Authority (DGBAP) is currently giving technical support to 7 

indigenous lands (Chacobo-Pacahuara, Takana-Cavineño, Multiétnico II, Cavineño, Territorio 

Indígena Moxeño Ignaciano, Territorio Multiétnico, Takana I) and one rural community 

(Comunidad Campesina Bella Vista) placed in the northern portion of the Bolivian Amazon Basin. 

Under this strategy, National Authority considers that local communities improved the monetary 

benefits from the harvests, and also there is better control over the source of the skins and the 

monitoring of the harvest. 

The rest of the Bolivian quota is managed under the coordination of National and Departmental 

Governments within the national yacare program. 

Information of exported skins for 2012 is under preparation. 

Caiman yacare ranching and captive breeding program in Bolivia: Crocoland Ranch is still the 

only authorized facility to operate with ranching and captive breeding of Caiman yacare. The 

breeding population consists of 2310 females and 582 males. Ranching effort was not carried out 

during 2011. However, during 2012 Crocoland Ranch worked with a new more participative 

ranching system in close coordination with local stakeholders. In this sense, 146 nests were 

harvested by local people, and 1156 nests were harvested directly by Crocoland workers. The total 

harvest for 2012 was 1302 nests. Additionally, 832 nests were produced by the breeding population 

at Crocoland. 

Numbers of hatchlings produced both by farming and ranching activities are given in the next chart: 

Year 

Production system 

Production of 

hatchlings 

Recorded Mortality 

(until 29/11/12) 

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011 

2012 

Farming 7175 3011 

Ranching 19192 2098 

TOTAL 26367 5109 

Farming 8557 4138 

Ranching 32338 10947 

TOTAL 40895 15085 

Farming 7145 1791 


TOTAL 32008 5550 

Farming 7823 830 

Ranching 26532 12586 

TOTAL 34355 13416 

Farming 11120 310 

Ranching 0 0 

TOTAL 11120 310 

Farming 13576 76 


TOTAL 44329 204

Crocoland Ranch already exported 71,626 skins from individuals produced from 2009 to 2011, and 

it is currently in the process of exportation of 20,939 skins. 

Melanosuchus niger and Caiman latirostris Action Plan for Bolivia: DGBAP finalized the 

development of an action plan for Melanosuchs niger and for Caiman latirostris. The objective of 

this action plan is to achieve the recovery of M. niger and C. latirostris populations in several 

strategic areas of their distribution range, and to assess the possibility to face the sustainable use of 

these species in the future. However, no actions have been taken yet to achieve these objectives. 

The National Authority will give further information about the advances in the implementation of 

this action plan. 

Confiscation of caimans in Bolivia: On 26 April DGBAP (CITES Management Authority of 

Bolivia) invited us to a meeting regarding the confiscation of Caiman yacare hatchlings and skins 

from the San Matias region (Bolivian Pantanal). They informed us that 4931 hatchlings (2-3 weeks 

old) and 511 leathers were detained on 18 April as they entered in the city of Santa Cruz. 

The shipment was sent by indigenous communities from the San Matías region directed to 

Crocoland breeding center, but this company says that they did not carry out the order and timely 

informed to the communities to not carry out the harvest of eggs during 2012 due the lack of 

authorization from the National Authority (DGBAP). In any case, the shipment was destined to the 

city of Santa Cruz and not to Brazil as misinformed several sources from internet. 

The animals are currently located at Crocoland facilities (the only place with conditions to have 

them). The decision taken by the DGBAP is that the animals should stay at Crocoland as 

“temporary custody” to keep them in the breeding farm for a year (in order to increase their chances 

of survival) and then they will be release into the same area from which they were extracted 

(Bolivian Pantanal). 

Currently the DGBAP began the research to determine who promoted the harvest and transportation 

of animals, to implement the appropriate penalty. 

Perú (Information compiled by Alfonso Llobet, with input from Ana María Trelancia, Dani 

Enrique Rivera Gonzalez, David Montes, Germán Chávez, Gianmarco Rojas, Pedro G. Vasquez 

Ruesta, Roberto Elias Piperis) 

Crocodylus acutus captive breeding and conservation status. There are still three institutions 

maintaining the breeding C. acutus population: La Tuna Carranza breeding center, Huachipa Zoo 

Park and Las Leyendas Park. La Tuna Carranza breeding center is still open and managed under 

direction of “Fondo para el Desarrollo Pesquero” (FONDEPES) and the Ministry of Production. 

However, we don’t have any information about improvements carried out during 2012 in this 

breeding center (Gianmarco Rojas, pers. comm.). 

Huachipa Zoo Park has received three female individuals (juveniles) of C. acutus during 2012. All 

of them arrived in bad condition, but due to the efforts of the local technical staff the females are 

now in good shape and growing rapidly (Gianmarco Rojas, pers. comm.). 

Few efforts were done to update the population data of wild C. acutus during the last years. 

However, according to German Chavez (pers. comm.) there is opportunistic data confirming the 

presence of this specie in the Tumbes basin (Rica Playa location). It seems that this population is 

somehow isolated from other C. acutus populations.

Melanosuchus niger situation: There are no updated information of M. niger status in the regions 

where this species is distributed. Dani Enrique Rivera (com. pers.), reports the presence of M. niger 

in the Alto Yaravi River (border between Peru and Brazil). This area belongs to Matses National 

Reserve and Matses Native Community. Local people hunt some individuals to consume the meat 

and in some occasions they keep the skin, but not for selling. This consumption is very occasional. 

According to Gianmarco Rojas (pers. comm.), some years ago there was a breeding center at 

Ucayali region named Ucayali Reptile Breeding Farm. Nevertheless, there is no information about 

the continuity of their activities, and it seems that the animals were sent to small zoos in the region. 

On the other hand, Huachipa Zoo Park has 5 juveniles, all females, which came from a confiscation 

to illegal traffic carried out at Jorge Chavez International Airport (Lima). 

Other crocodilian species: Different surveys made between 2009 and 2012 found the presence of 

Paleosuchus trigonatus in small creeks in the Peruvian forest (San MArtin, Loreto, Cusco and 

Madre de Dios regions). Apparently this specie has some healthy populations in rivers: Mayo, 

Urubamba, Tambopata and Tapiche (German Chavez, pers. comm.). 

Field surveys showed healthy populations of Caiman crocodilus and P. trigonatus at Alto Yaravi. 

Principally P. trigonatus and occasionally C. crocodilus are hunted for local subsistence by Matses 

indigenous people, but this does not represent a significant pressure over these species (Dani 

Rivera, pers. comm.). 

During this year (2013), the “Asociación Fauna Forever Tambopata” will begin a project tagging 

and recapturing Caiman crocodilus in Tambopata River Basin; the marking will be done using 

microchips. The leaders of the project are Chris Kirkby (chris_kirkby@yahoo.com) and Brian 

Crnobrna (bbc7@comcast.net). 

General issues: Pedro Vazquez (pers. comm.) informed us that the Ministry of Environment has 

decided to take some significant steps to fill information gaps about crocodilians in Peru. The first 

step was to hire a consultant to do systematization of information generated since 1970. In the same 

context, a georeferenced database is being produced about the distribution of Amazonian species. 

This report should be available by the end of May. The second step will be to attack the problem 

from the lack of population data; for this there are plans to start field sampling during 2014. This 

effort is being supported by the USAID 

Gianmarco Rojas indicated the intention to produce a book about hematology of crocodilians and 

caimans from South America; in this sense he asked if it is possible to obtain some support from the 

CSG. 

Brazil (Information provided by Luis Bassetti) 

Not too much to report from Brazil, as the records of production of Caiman yacare of the ranching 

operations from the Pantanal region are not yet available. Some concern was expressed for CSG 

Brazilian members because it was detected thought the social networks that one farm from the State 

of Alagoas, that works with Caiman latirostris on closed-cycle system, it was offering and reporting 

exports to Europe of those products. Considering that Caiman latirostris is listed on Appendix I of 

CITES in Brazil, the questions is: “How this can be possible?”, also taking into account that there 

are no CITES registered captive breeding farms for the species. The investigation showed that only 

a few skins were exported in the last two years, but still remains unclear how this was done. We’re 

still waiting for an explanation of the Brazilian authorities.

With regard to the Melanosuchus niger management plan in the Amazon basin, we leant through 

the social network that at list one organization (IDAM), it is recommending the authorization of the 

hunting of 820 animals at the Fonte Boa county on Amazonas State. No official information about 

this, neither about any possible exploitation in the rest of the region. 

From Robinson Botero-Arias: 

On October 2012 we orgainzed the 7th Field Course: “Training on Technics for researching 

Caymans”. This is carried out in the context of the “Program for Research and Conservation and 

Wildlife Management of Caymans of the Mamirauá Institute at the Brazilian Amazon Region”. 

The goal of the course is to provide to the students the capacity on the field research techniques on 

one hand, and to develop and strengthen a net of young researchers in order to share information 

and experiences in South America. Since its beginning 70 students from different countries have 

participated in the course. This was originally created in 2007 by Dr. John Thorbjarnarson with the 

support of WCS and the Mamirauá Institute. 

In the last course we had 9 participants from 5 countries (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Perú and 

Portugal), all of them already working on research on caimans in South America. 

The Course was entirely supported by the “Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación del 

Gobierno Federal de Brasil”. Since 2012 the CSG has supported the initiative by encouraging 

young members to participate through distributing information in its newsletter, website and the 

Regional Office for Latin America. 

In this 7th course the CSG also provided the sum of $US600 as a prize to the best two students of 

the course. The selection criterion was based on the performance of the students on the field, plus 

the justification on how the students may spend the money of the prize. The two students who 

received the prize were: José António Nóbrega (Portugal) ($US400), Magister student at the 

Univesidad Federal de Amazonas, Brazil, who is currently working on diet, body condition and 

blood biochemical of Caiman crocodilus nesting females on Central Amazon; and, Diego João 

Freitas (Perú) ($US200), student at the Universidad Científica del Perú, who is currently working 

on population evaluations of Melanosuchus niger and Caiman crocodilus on Samiria River, Perú. 

We are now working on the organization of the 8th course which is expected in October 2013. 

Colombia (Information provided by Sergio Medrano) 

Basically there are four points to comments, on a general context where the process in Colombia 

keeps going on: 

1. The activities of the farmers have been mainly related with the resolutions from the 

Government about the certification process of the scar button and the verification of the 

crocodile skins and products at the exportation ports. In this context some inconsistencies have 

been detected, basically on the definition on what really is a scar button. Nevertheless in the 

next few days will going to be a meeting with the Ministry in order to ask them to adjust with 

the private certification companies the verification process, as there are some evidences on that 

they are not been strong an off on the controls. 

2. In relation with the previous issue, the farmers together with the Ministry have developed a 

protocol to be followed by the certification companies and authorities for the sampling controls 

and exportations as requested for the legislation. It is planned to notify to the CITES parties on

this regard, but still not scheduled. This 17 page document is in Spanish and available upon 

request to Sergio Medrano or myself. 

3. The genotyping work on the 4000 Crocodylus acutus breeding stock on Colombian farms is 

almost finished. It is expected that there will be a resolution regulating this obligation, so 

without this DNA information from the farm, the exports requested will be restricted. 

4. The downlisting proposal for the C. acutus population of the “Bahia de Cispatá” was not 

adopted at CoP16. It is expected that a new proposal based on ranching will be submitted to 

CoP17. 

Mexico (Information provided by Hesiquio Benitez, CONABIO) 

There is not too much to say currently about Mexico. Right now the Technical Subcommittee for 

the Management, Conservation and Sustainable Use of Crocodylia in Mexico (COMACROM) is 

still working on the Morelet’s Crocodile Monitoring Program. On the other hand, there is 

information about that the biggest farm in Mexico (Cocodrilos Mejicanos SA), is currently closing 

down. 

A full report of the all sub region will be presented at the next meeting in 2014. 

Central America (Information provided by Miryam Venegas-Anaya) 

Nothing to report now from Central America. Miryam is not able to join us in Sri Lanka. She 

informed me that she is still working on DNA of C. acutus, and with her Training Center in 

Panamá. She also had some health problems and was recently bitten by a crocodile, and lost a 

phalanx of a finger. Fortunately she is better now. 

Venezuela (Information provided by Alvaro Velasco) 

Alvaro informed that the national census of Caimans will not be carried out this year. The total 

number of authorized licenses for 2013 is 278, which imply a maximum number of 28,483 skins to 

be harvested, but up to now licenses for 5890 skins have been requested, so will be very difficult to 

reach the maximum this year (again). The taxes that the interested producers must pay increased by 

17% this year, which is another disincentive for the activity. On the other hand, 322 Crocodylus 

intermedius yearlings have been released at the Parque Nacional Capanaparo-Cinaruco. 

Cuba (Information provided by Alejandro Larriera) 

Finally, I was successful on contacting Manuel Alfonso Tabet in Cuba. He said that he will be 

happy to replace Roberto Rodríguez Soberón as our CSG representative. Due to the obvious 

restrictions on the communications in the island, we established a satisfactory contact by telephone, 

so he will inform any news by that means. 

Prepared by: 

Alejandro Larriera, with input from Regional Chairs and other. 

Date prepared: 1 May 2013



20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC.2.8.1 


Jamaica Crocodile Conservation 


At the Manila Steering Committee meeting the Chairman requested Perran Ross, Allan Woodward 

and Joe Wasilewski to convene a working group and develop a recommended plan of action. 

The working group met on 21 May 2012, and following consultation with people who were not 

present at the meeting (Byron Wilson, Frank Mazzotti, Mike Cherkiss, Jeff Beauchamp), but who 

have been involved with the issue, the following “6-step” action plan was submitted (see Manila 

Proceedings). Subsequently, a workshop was held to address step 1 of the action plan. 

Over 80 people from 4 countries and four US states assembled in Miami on 15 February 2013 for a 

workshop on American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) issues in Florida and Jamaica. The meeting 

was convened and organized by Joe Wasilewski, Frank Mazzotti and Perran Ross as a direct 

outcome of discussions on the Jamaican crocodile crisis at the 21st CSG Working Meeting in 

Manila (Ross et al. 2012; Henriques et al. 2012). 

Financial support from the Crocodile Conservation Institute (Sam Seashole), Florida Light and 

Power Company (FPL), Lacoste-Save Your Logo (through a grant to Frank Mazzotti) and an 

anonymous donor allowed 5 Jamaican participants to attend the workshop: Ricardo Miller, National 

Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA); Damion Whyte, Urban Development Corporation 

(UDC); Professor Byron Wilson, University of West Indies; Dr. Leo Douglas, Columbia 

University; and, Lawrence Henriques. 

A morning session presented results of American crocodile’s recovering status in Florida (Mike 

Cherkiss), movements (Jeff Beauchamp), the FPL extensive land management and conservation 

activities at Turkey Point (Jim Lindsay), management of increasing human-crocodile conflict in 

Florida’s coastal suburbs (Lindsey Hord), and an analysis of impacts of climate change and sea 

level rise on crocodiles in Florida and Jamaica (Laura Brandt). 

In the afternoon, Ricardo Miller (NEPA) and Damion Whtye (UDC) outlined the structure, 

activities and some constraints of their agencies crocodile management programs. Byron Wilson 

detailed the current threats and his research in the Hellshire Hills region and Lawrence Henriques 

provided a spatial overview of the very limited and threatened area of habitat for crocodiles in 

Jamaica and his own work on rescue and rehabilitation of crocodiles. A lively discussion ensued, 

lamenting the very disturbing increase in threats (habitat loss and illegal hunting for meat), limited 

resources and capacity and the economic and social drivers of this looming conservation crisis. A 

number of proposals for response were suggested including mobilizing international concerns and 

applying pressure to the Jamaican Government for more action, a media and educational program to 

shift public opinion and support, fundraising, seeking corporate and local ‘Champions’ for Jamaican 

crocodile conservation, research focused on management and conservation needs and developing an 

action plan coordinated among the Jamaican and external interests, including CSG. Following the

workshop, several discussions with Jamaican participants developed an outline for next steps to 

draft and promote this plan. 

Following the workshop, our Jamaican guests and several participants participated in a field trip on 

16 February to the Florida Power and Light conservation mitigation and conservation area and the 

cooling canals of the power generation plant. Extensive habitat improvement, water flow and 

salinity management, exotic plant control and development of artificial nesting sites has established 

this 6000 acre area as well protected stronghold and most productive reproduction area for C. 

acutus in Florida and provides a model for enlightened involvement of the private sector in 

crocodile conservation. We are optimistic that the follow up from this workshop will empower and 

assist crocodile conservation in Jamaica and provide a plan, a model and support for ensuring the 

long term persistence of Jamaica’s crocodiles. 

Henriques, L., Wilson, B. and Ross, P. (2012). Jamaican crocodile conservation. Crocodile Specialist Group Newsletter 

31(3): 6-7. 

Ross, P., Woodward, A. and Wasilewski, J. (2012). Summary report of Jamaican Crocodile Working Group. Pp. 255- 

256 in Crocodiles. Proceedings of the 21st Working Meeting of the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group. 

IUCN: Gland, Switzerland. 

Prepared by: 

James Perran Ross 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Cambodia Review – Progress Report 


On behalf of the Cambodian Fisheries Administration (FiA), I have great pleasure in providing an update on 

progress with CSG recommendations from the 2005 review of conservation and management of crocodiles 

in Cambodia in 2005. By their very nature some of the recommendations will be ongoing, and will never be 

totally complete, and FiA remains committed to reporting on the implementation of some regulatory 

systems. 

Overall, FiA feels that good progress has been made with all recommendations to better improve the 

management and conservation of crocodiles in Cambodia. A summary of progress with each of the 

recommendations is provided here: 

1. A report on progress made in finalizing and approving CITES-enabling legislation needs to be 

prepared and submitted (by end of May 2005) for consideration by the 53rd meeting of the CITES 

Standing Committee. [Completed] 

At the 53rd meeting of the CITES Standing Committee (27 June-1 July 2005), Cambodia was listed to be 

reviewed in the 54th meeting with regard to the legislative progress. 

2. Finalize and approve the CITES “Sub-decree on International Trade of Endangered Wild Animal 

and Plant Species” as soon as possible. [Completed] 

The Sub-Decree on International Trade of Endangered Wild Animal and Plant Species was signed by 

Prime Minister on 29 May 2006 and has been publicly used. Furthermore, the Law on CITES 

Convention was endorsed by the National Assembly on 25 November 2011 and Promulgated by the 

King on 2 January 2012. 

3. Finalize and approve the new Fisheries Law. [Completed] 

The Fisheries Law was endorsed by the National Assembly on 30 March 2006 and promulgated by the 

King on 21 May 2006. It has been publicly used. 

4. Clarify the role of the Cambodian CITES Management Authority and strengthen its capacity. 

[Completed] 

The role of the Cambodian CITES Management Authority is clearly defined now but this authority is 

facing a lack of human and financial resources. This is a widely recognized problem, requiring attention 

at the highest political levels. 

5. Clarify the role of the two Cambodian CITES Scientific Authorities and strengthen their 

capacities. [Completed] 

- On 21 February 2005, a Declaration from the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (MAFF) 

stated that crocodiles, turtles and frogs are under the jurisdiction of the Fisheries Administration. This 

decision is still in force.

- The Forestry Administration has responsibility for managing all wildlife animals except for crocodiles, 

turtles and frogs and other animals that breed in water. 

- The new CITES “Sub-Decree” (Rec. 2), the new Law on Fisheries (Rec. 3), and the Establishment of 

the Cambodia Crocodile Consultative Committee (see Rec. 25) have greatly assisted the two Scientific 

Authorities with clear roles and responsibility. 

- On 12 August 2009, Prime Minister singed the Sub-Degree on Fisheries Endangered Species that 

included crocodile species. 

6. Establish a Cambodian Crocodile Monitoring Unit to monitor farm and wild populations. 

[Completed] 

Recently, the Crocodile Conservation and Industrial Development Division was created under the DFC 

and the Crocodile Monitoring Unit has been formed in this division under supervision of Mr. Heng 

Sovannara, who is Deputy Director of DFC in charge of conservation and management of crocodiles and 

all fisheries endangered species listed in the above Sub-Degree. 

The CMU will continue to report to the CSG on implementation over time. 

7. Review and improve reporting of farm data to the Department of Fisheries. [Completed] 

- 2009 updated figures of crocodile farms: All crocodile farms have been registered at the national 

level. There are 257 farms with total of 56,692 crocodiles (including 22,864 females, 8025 males, 

16,784 sub-adults and 9019 hatchlings). 


level. There are 561 farms with total of 83,578 crocodiles (including 33,263 females, 12,005 males, 







20,568 sub-adults and 11,374 hatchlings). 

8. Centralization and ongoing computerization and analysis of farm records. [Ongoing] 

Capacity building for the officers of the DFC has been improved with database management and farm 

license. Furthermore, the computer software has been set up, database has also been developed and the 

registration form will soon be renewed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries for official 

use. 

We will continue to report to the CSG on implementation over time. 

9. Establish and implement a licensing system that covers all farming operations (i.e. anyone with 

crocodiles), traders and exporters. [Completed] 

The DFC is responsible for implementation and development of the protocols for more effective 

licensing system. The export licenses have been issued by CITES Management in Cambodia and One 

Stop Service System has been forced by the Prime Minister and is now in operation. 

10. Derive clear criteria for recognizing hybrids, and assess and quantify the extent of hybridization 

(C. siamensis x C. rhombifer; possibly C. siamensis x C. porosus) on farms. [Ongoing] 

Financial support and specialist expertise are limited and very urgently required in order to derive all the 

relevant criteria and to train local staff. So far, only minor activities have been implemented such as 

providing recommendation on separation and elimination of hybrids in crocodile farms.

11. Implement actions to contain, reduce or eliminate hybridisation in order to minimize or eliminate 

completely the possibility of C. rhombifer genetic material entering the wild population of C. 

siamensis. [Ongoing] 

Some progresses are identified in the above N. 7-10 of recommendation. Recently, the DFC in 

cooperation with FFI and WCS has done some activities as follows: 

- DNA samples from 11 crocodiles from Prek Toal, Battambang Province, were collected and sent to 

Thailand for analysis. The purpose of this sampling is to identify pure C. siamensis for release into 

natural waterbodies in 2013. 

- DNA samples from 22 crocodiles at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre were collected and 

analysed. The result showed that all 22 samples were pure. These animals will be released in 2013. 

12. As a matter of urgency the Cambodian CITES Management Authority prepare and submit the 

CITES annual report for 2003, which is overdue. [Completed] 

Annual figures for 2003 and 2004 were sent to the CITES Secretariat. 

13. Seek assistance from the CITES Secretariat in order to amend the CITES register to: 

(a) Allow international trade in live C. siamensis, and 

(b) Remove one inactive crocodile farm from the CITES register. 

(a) An official letter to amend the 6 crocodile farms registered with the CITES Secretariat in 1998 was 

sent to the Secretariat in July 2005. [Completed] 

(b) A letter to remove one inactive farm was sent to the CITES Secretariat (see 14. below). However, 

the register on the CITES website has not yet been changed, and the Secretariat will be contacted 

again. [Completed/Ongoing] 

14. Consider seeking CITES registration of all additional established crocodile farms that are 

producing C. siamensis through captive breeding and exporting. [Completed/Ongoing] 

Twenty-one farms have been proposed for registration with the CITES Secretariat. FiA and CITES 

Management Authority are now processing applications. 

15. Review Government policy with regard to implementation of CITES Resolution Conf. 12.10 

(Rev. COP15) on the registration of captive breeding operations for C. siamensis. [Ongoing] 

The situation in Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam is some unique, in that farms with captive breeding 

use satellite farms for raising of juveniles. CITES never really envisaged this type of production system 

when it was established. 

The proposed registration of 21 farms will assist compliance in Cambodia, but given the diversity of 

different-sized operations, it is difficult to see how to deal with this issue effectively within a CITES 

context. It is an issue that CSG should deliberate upon. 

Cambodia has no choice at present but to comply with Resolution Conf. 12.10 (Rev. CoP13), but will 

raise the matter with trading partners with the species. An Appendix-II listing of the Cambodian 

population of C. siamensis would remove the requirement to operate under this resolution, and future 

efforts may move in that direction. 

Another avenue would be to refrain in future from implementing Resolution Conf. 12.10 (Rev. CoP13) 

as the EU does, and leave it to the importing Parties to accept any specimens captive bred in line with 

the provisions of CITES Resolution Conf. 10.16 (Rev.) which would for example be acceptable for any 

shipments from non-registered operations to the EU, but not to the USA.

16. Investigate national and international illegal trade in crocodiles involving Cambodia, and if 

possible quantify the amount of trade, the ways in which it is occurring and the identity of key 

players and/or organizations involved within or outside Cambodia. [Ongoing] 

DFC, in collaboration with Inspection Unit, has monitored trade-related activities. However, the 

extensive borders with neighbouring countries, and other pressing issues (eg education, health) within 

Cambodia, makes this a difficult task. Nonetheless, efforts will continue, particularly through the CSG’s 

newly formed Siamese Crocodile Task Force. 

17. Develop pragmatic strategies to curtail illegal trade and test them through implementation. 

[Ongoing] 

Cambodia has been trying to best encourage crocodile traders to be legal exporters and has trained them 

on document preparation for the export process following CITES rules. However, cooperation among 

exporters of neighboring countries and importers of countries of destination is still poor. Efforts will 

continue. 

18. Strengthen enforcement capability of relevant agencies (e.g. customs, police, fisheries, 

communities, forestry) through training and capacity building. [Completed/Ongoing] 

Some training courses have been conducted by the CITES Management Authority. 

19. Ensure the farm monitoring program with regular inspections is implemented and can assess the 

legality of stocks. [Completed/Ongoing] 

DFC in cooperation with Fisheries Cantonments has inspected all registered farms. With such a large 

number of farms, this will be an ongoing task. However, priority has been given to the larger farms, and 

assistance may be sought from the newly formed Cambodian Crocodile Farmers Association. 

20. Ensure appropriate actions are taken legally (e.g. confiscation, penalties) if the farm monitoring 

program identifies illegal stocks. [Ongoing] 

The farm monitoring program has been regularly conducted. Farmers understood well the legislations. 

21. Establish dialogue with neighboring states, through a regional working group under an 

appropriate body (e.g. ASEAN wildlife trade initiative and/or Mekong River Sub-regional CITES 

Working Group), to address regional issues and problems with C. siamensis. [Completed] 

See Recommendation Number 16-18, 28, and 30 and Cambodia is a member of ASEAN WEN. We also 

see the CSG Siamese Crocodile Task Force as a vehicle through which these regional issues can be 

addressed. 

22. Develop as a matter of urgency a comprehensive crocodile management program for Cambodia. 

[Completed] 

The Fisheries Administration has developed a 10 Year Strategic Planning Framework for Fisheries and 

the management of wild and farm crocodile are included. As agreeing in the Bangkok Species meeting, 

the National Crocodile Association proposes to release more 3000 pure crocodiles into natural habitats 

over the next 3-5 years. 

23. Establish a strategy for capacity building for all stakeholders, including communities, crocodile 

farmers, government agencies, etc., in order to raise awareness of the current status of 

Cambodia's wild crocodile populations. [Completed] 

These plans are included in the 10 Year Strategic Planning Framework for Fisheries. Dissemination to 

the diverse group of farmers continues.

24. Re-establish the Cambodian Crocodile Farming Development Association under its new statutes. 

[Completed/Ongoing] 

We propose to establish at least one Association in every province and one National Association to 

oversee the Provincial Associations. Until now, 3 Crocodile Associations have been established and 

approved by the Ministry of Interior. A meeting in April 2013 confirmed the statutes for a national 

association, and discussion focused on some conservation activities that may be undertaken (see 22.). 

25. Establish a multi-sectorial Cambodian Crocodile Consultative Committee composed of 

representatives from all stakeholders. [Completed] 

A Technical Working Group for Fisheries has been established under the FiA. This group is chaired by 

the Director General of Fisheries Administration and co-chaired by a representative of Development 

Partners. The group will meet every two months to discuss and share all information related to fisheries 

sector including crocodile management. The national crocodile farmers association will provide a point 

of contact for the industry. 

26. Continue assessment of the status and distribution of wild C. siamensis and C. porosus, and 

perhaps Tomistoma schlegelii, in Cambodia. [Completed] 

FFI and WCS are continuing their works and cooperating with FiA on biological surveys in Cambodia. 

The DFC is responsible for the management and conservation of this species as it is one of the fisheries 

threatened species defined by the Sub-Decree. DFC and WCS plan to put a transmitter on a large wild 

male crocodile to be released at Tonle Sap Great Lake. A base map on wild population will be 

produced. 

27. Identify training and capacity needs of government departments involved with the management of 

wild crocodile populations. [Completed] 

Database management and record, Wild population assessment and monitoring, Illegal trade 

investigation and crackdown, Biology and ecology. 

28. Improve enforcement and management activities to promote recovery of the wild population in 

existing protected areas where crocodiles are known to occur. [Ongoing] 

Enforcement (Rec. 16-21, 28, 30) is in progress following the enactment of the new Fisheries Law. 

29. Identify and establish such new protected areas and/or sanctuaries that may be needed to ensure a 

significant part of the remaining wild population and its habitats are retained. 


The identified areas include Sre Ambel in Koh Kong Province, Boeng Prakark in Preh Vihea Province, 

Prek Toal of the Tonle Sap Great Lake and Srepok River in Mondulkiri Province. Requirement of both 

human and financial resources is urgently needed for strengthening management and conservation. The 

Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Project has identified 9 potential sites for translocation/release of 

Siamese crocodiles in southwest Cambodia. To date, the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Project 

has been able to utilize one site, the Stung Keav River as a translocation site for the Stung Atay 

Hydropower Dam Rescue Mission. Furthermore, the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Project 

released 9 Siamese crocodile hatchlings in the Stung Dai River. 

30. To ensure compliance with CITES make a strong high-level government commitment to stop 

illegal trade in crocodiles (and other species of wildlife), and ensure compliance with CITES. 

[Ongoing] 

Enforcement (Rec. 16-21, 28 and 30) following the enactment of the new Fisheries Law needs to be 

stepped up.

31. Identify training needs of the farming industry, and organise relevant courses, workshops, etc. 


Training workshops have been undertaken, including topics such as farming systems for skin quality 

and skin processing. 

We hope that CSG will find this progress report useful and informative, and welcome any feedback or 

comments from the CSG. 

Prepared by: 

Heng Sovannara, Deputy Director of Fisheries Conservation Department, Cambodian 

Fisheries Administration 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC. 3.5 


First Species (C. siamensis) Meeting, Bangkok 


In April 2011 a special meeting on improving the conservation of one species - the Siamese 

crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) - was held at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand. The 

outcomes of that meeting were reported in CSG Newsletter 30(2). In overview, the meeting resulted 

in a series of practical actions that each Range State will hopefully be able to advance. The CSG 

and its members will do all they can to help. The conservation of C. siamensis in the wild, within 

Southeast Asia, is a complex undertaking. Basically, the recommendations addressed the following 

key area: 

(a) Conservation - Restoring and/or better protection of wild populations. Recommendations 

made for each Range State with a request to get short-term conservations started as soon as 

possible and report back to Manila meeting. 

(b) Conservation - Strengthening enforcement capacities at all relevant agencies. Each Range 

State to provide appropriate information. CSG to make information readily available. 

(c) Compliance with CITES. Existing penalties within Range States are to be reviewed and 

harmonized, where possible. 

(d) Captive production and industry - monitoring of crocodile holding facilities and 

manufacturing industry. CSG will enter into dialogue with various Range States and provide 

guidelines, with recommendations, on how marking systems could be implemented. Problem of 

marking products and live animals in trade needs to be investigated. 

(e) Captive production and industry - capacity building of stakeholders involved with captive 

management of the Siamese crocodile. Range States to report on what monitoring is 

occurring within their jurisdictions. Training for Crocodile farmers to be reviewed and 

provided to other Range States. CSG document on monitoring to go on CSG website. Range 

States need to consider capacity building separately. 

All relevant recommendations were referred to the respective Range States for consideration and 

advice, together with several follow up letters. There have not been any real responses from the 

Range States. The major subsequent outcome from the meeting has been the establishment of a 

CSG Siamese Crocodile Task Force, to discuss what might be possible in respect of the common 

recommendations on compliance, capacity building, etc., A report from the Task Force is at SC.6.3. 

Prepared by: 





20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Lao PDR Review 

Summary Report on Visit to Lao PDR (Tom Dacey, Executive Officer) 

At the invitation of the Lao Department of Forest Resource Management (DFRM), Ministry of 

Natural Resources, and with logistic support provided by the Wildlife Conservation Society - Lao 

Programme, I visited Lao PDR from 2-10 December 2012. It was unfortunate that Yosapong 

Temsiripong and Dr. Parntep Ratanakorn had to withdraw from the mission at the last minute. 

The aim of the visit was to provide the Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) with a better 

understanding of the local threats to conservation and the opportunities for collaboration in 

crocodile conservation in Lao PDR. Specific objectives were to: 

1. Meet with relevant Government authorities to review current status of and understand 

government policies and needs regarding crocodile management. 

2. Visit the Lao Zoo and view the captive breeding program and meet with zoo representatives to 

discuss ongoing support. 

3. Visit the Ramsar Champhone wetlands to view critical remaining crocodile habitat and villagebased 

conservation. 

During the visit I had the opportunity to meet with and have discussions with a range of 

representatives in Vientiane, Lao Zoo, Savannakhet, and Tansoun and Ban Noa Nua villages in 

Savannakhet Province. 

Institutional Structure 

The Wildlife Management Section, Department of Forest Resource Management, Ministry of 

Natural Resources, is responsible for crocodiles. It is also the CITES Management Authority. The 

CITES Scientific Authority is the Biotechnology and Ecology Institute, Ministry of Science and 

Technology. 

Legal and Regulatory Procedures 

All wildlife in Lao PDR is subject to the “Wildlife and Aquatic Law, 2007”. Under this legislation, 

wildlife is classified into three groupings, namely: General use; Managed use; or, Restricted use. 

Crocodiles are classified under “Restricted use”, which stipulates that there will be no hunting, 

collection or use or sale of products. There are no crocodile farms in Lao PDR. 

Historically, there was trade in crocodiles between Lao PDR and neighbouring countries (eg 

Thailand, Cambodia) (Bezuijen et al. 2006). Whilst I was not made aware of any current illegal 

trade in crocodiles in Lao PDR, given that Laos borders countries with extensive trade in crocodiles

and the lack of understanding of the legal status of crocodiles by rural communities in the country, 

the potential for illegal trade exists, and efforts with public education and enforcement will be 

important in mitigating it. In a patisserie shop in Vientiane I saw a small jar of “crocodile pate” for 

sale. 

Captive Management 

The privately-owned Lao Zoo is located 80 km outside of Vientiane. It holds around 250 crocodiles, 

which are housed in five large outdoor pens (adults) and three smaller outdoor pens (juveniles and 

hatchlings). Diet consists mainly of freshwater fish. 

Eggs are incubated in polystyrene boxes containing media (rice husk?), with heat provided through 

a heating lamp. Water on the floor of the “incubation room” provides an unknown level of 

humidity. 

Most of the adults are considered to be hybrids, as their origin is uncertain (see Platt 2012). 

However, 3 male and 5 female adults, held separately from the other adults, are believed to be pure 

C. siamensis. DNA testing is currently underway on these animals, and the results are due in 

January 2013. These adults currently produce 3 nests per year (approximately 100 eggs). Should 

testing confirm that these 8 adults are indeed pure C. siamensis, their progeny could be used in the 

head-starting program (see later). Nest production from the hybrid adults (>50) is about 10 nests per 

year, but hatchling production is low, mainly due to high egg infertility. 

The zoo also maintains a separate raising facility, where in cooperation with WCS, C. siamensis 

hatchlings derived from wild eggs incubated at the zoo (see above) are raised as part of the headstarting 

program. In 2011, 33 wild eggs were incubated producing 20 hatchlings (one died recently). 

In 2012, 28 wild eggs were incubated, producing 17 hatchlings. At the time of the visit 19 yearlings 

and 17 hatchlings were being raised as part of the head-start program. 

Wild Populations and Habitats 

In Savannakhet, I was briefed by the WCS Crocodile Management Team on its activities in the 

Ramsar Champhone wetlands. An objective of the WCS program in this area is to assist 

Government to conserve the wetlands and ensure the conservation of wildlife species, including 

crocodiles, through involvement of community-based crocodile conservation teams. Most project 

sites are located in the floodplain of the Champhone River, a tributary of the Xe Banghiang River, 

which in turn flows into the Mekong River. The headwaters of the Champhone River originate in 

northern regions of Savannakhet Province. 

WCS have developed and successfully conducted two crocodile workshops with village-level 

participants. Through such workshops WCS works closely with established community-based 

crocodile conservation teams to ensure development of suitable skill sets, and the collection of 

biological data at crocodile conservation sites. 

In Savannkhet Province we visited: 

• Tansoum Village: In 2012 the majority of eggs from a wild C. siamensis nest were transported 

to Lao Zoo for incubation (see above), but 5 eggs from were retained for incubation at 

Tansoum Village. Similar incubation methods were used as in Lao Zoo. 

The four resulting hatchlings are now being raised in the village for the WCS head-start 

program. Based on visual observation, growth rates of these hatchlings appear to be higher than

those of sibling hatchlings being raised at Lao Zoo. The former are fed small live freshwater 

fish and eels. The villagers indicated that the hatchlings prefer the baby eels. 

We travelled by canoe through Champhone Wetlands, where regular population surveys are 

undertaken by trained villagers, and where nesting is known to occur. 

Eggs have been collected from here in 2011 and 2012 for the head-start program. The main 

threat to these wetlands is the encroachment by agricultural activities (eg rice is the principal 

crop produced in the lowlands of Savannakhet Province). 

Discussions with village elders revealed their knowledge of crocodiles and their aspirations 

with respect to tourism. They indicated that there have always been crocodiles nesting in this 

area and they wish to maintain the wetlands and wildlife to support the proposed development 

of eco-tourism, with guided tours of the wetlands. WCS is assisting the villagers through 

capacity building workshops and training (see above). 

• Ban Nao Nua Village: Together with Mr. Chanthone Phothitay (Deputy, Wildlife Management 

Section, DFRM) and the WCS Crocodile Management Team, I met with village elders and a 

district official at Ban Nao Nua. 

Here, I was privileged to witness a tradition of the calling of a large (3 m TL) C. siamensis 

(Fig. 2) from the lake, which is undertaken for cultural purposes. Whenever the villagers are 

contemplating any major decisions, they have the senior village elder go to the edge of the 

nearby lake and “call” the crocodile out of the water by imitating the vocalizations of a 

hatchling and offering food (either pork or chicken). The crocodile comes out of the water and 

the elder “seeks” the advice of the crocodile on the relevant issue and advises the villagers of 

the outcome. On the occasion of my visit the elder performed the ceremony, but only offered 

watermelon (which the crocodile ate), as the “calling” was not on an issue of importance. 

The crocodile appears to be the only one in the lake, and its sex (female) is based on the 

production of a nest each year containing infertile eggs. The villagers are currently considering 

a suggestion to introduce a male C. siamensis from Lao Zoo into the lake; however, 

consultation by the elder with the crocodile has not supported this proposal to date. Such strong 

religious beliefs among the local communities regarding crocodiles appear to provide a high 

degree of protection to the animals at these two locations. 

Village elders indicate that there has not been any major human-crocodile conflicts in either 

area, despite the regular activities of the villagers in the waters of these areas. Only one incident 

was cited, that of a local fisherman being bitten by a crocodile whilst fishing in waist-deep 

water in the lake, about 6 years ago. It is not uncommon to see families bathing in the lake and 

children playing at the water’s edge. The villagers also produce a range of handicrafts that 

would be saleable items, should eco-tourism develop. 

Prior to departing Lao PDR I met with DFRM and WCS representatives in Vientiane, and gave a 

brief presentation on the outcomes of my visit, including the following recommendations: 

1. WCS, with the support of DFRM, should maintain and strengthen efforts to identify remnant C. 

siamensis populations and suitable sites for the release of head-started C. siamensis, through 

continuation of regular surveys for crocodiles and their nests in the wild. Such surveys will also 

assist in gaining a clearer understanding of the size of the wild C. siamensis population in Lao 

PDR.

2. Carry out DNA testing of crocodiles in Lao Zoo, that are proposed for release back into the 

wild, to ensure that they are pure C. siamensis. 

3. DFRM continue to support the WCS head-start program for the release of C. siamensis back 

into the wild to re-establish and boost the wild populations. 

4. Work should continue with the involvement of local communities in the collection and 

incubation of eggs, the establishment of village hatchery/raising facilities, and future headstarting 

activities. 

5. All C. siamensis released into the wild should be marked (eg scute-clipped) to enable future 

identification. 

6. DFRM should continue to support the development of ecotourism projects at Tansoum and Ban 

Nao Nua villages, involving local knowledge of the wetlands, crocodiles, traditional beliefs and 

sale of handicrafts. 

7. DFRM should strengthen enforcement activities to mitigate against illegal trade. Close 

collaboration with neighbouring countries (Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia) is critical in this 

regard. 

8. Government and NGOs maintain involvement in the CSG Siamese Crocodile Task Force 

(established in May 2012), and the implementation of recommendations of the First CSG 

Regional Species Meeting (2011) on the conservation and management of C. siamensis. 

9. Levels of public awareness of the legal and conservation status of crocodiles within local 

communities should be increased. 

Prepared by: 





20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



CITES 


The 16th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES (CoP16) was held on 3-14 March 

2013, in Bangkok, Thailand. It was preceded on 2 March 2013 by the 64th meeting of the CITES 

Standing Committee (SC64). 

The current suspension in trade of Crocodylus niloticus from Madagascar was discussed at SC64. 

The working group on this issue (Japan, USA, France, Germany, CITES Secretariat, CSG) met with 

the Malagasy delegation to discuss progress made on the SC62 recommendations on the 

conservation and management of C. niloticus in Madagascar. Although progress had clearly been 

made with some of the recommendations, others had yet to be addressed completely, and so the 

working group felt that the suspension could not be lifted at this time. Although additional 

information had been submitted by Madagascar immediately before SC64, there was insufficient 

time for it to be translated, nor for the working group to evaluate it in detail. It was agreed that the 

working group would work intersessionally by e-mail to assess any additional documents submitted 

by Madagascar prior to SC65 (2014), and if compliance with the SC62 recommendations warranted 

the lifting of the trade suspension, this would be done through postal vote to SC members. 

Twenty-six (26) CSG members attended CoP16, from 16 countries [Australia (4), Colombia (3), 

Indonesia (3), USA (1), Mexico (1), Argentina (1), United Kingdom (2), Italy (1), Japan (2), 

Cambodia (1), Thailand (4), China (1), Singapore (1), Germany (1)], as members of Party 

delegations or participating as non-government or intergovernmental organisations (eg IUCN). CSG 

Chairman Grahame Webb, CSG Deputy Chairman Alejandro Larriera and CSG Executive Officer 

Tom Dacey were all in attendance. 

Three proposals to amend the appendices of CITES for crocodilians were debated at CoP16. 

1. Colombia proposed the transfer of the Cispata Bay population of C. acutus from Appendix I to 

Appendix II. The population outside Cispata Bay would remain on Appendix I, and be 

managed accordingly. The proposal was modified with an annotation to include a zero export 

quota, and although the modified proposal gained a high level of support (53.3% of votes) in 

Committee I, the proposal did not receive the necessary two-thirds of votes required for 

adoption. In particular, the European Union were concerned that: the population did not meet 

the criteria for Appendix-II listing [Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15); the appropriate 

safeguards were not yet in place; and, the proposal represented a split-listing of a population at 

a national level. The Cispata Bay project represents a change in direction for Colombia, away 

from captive breeding and towards a ranching operation through which local communities 

benefit. It was thus disappointing that the proposal was not accepted, as it could have provided 

the necessary impetus for the project to continue and to attract investment for further 

development.

2. The proposal to transfer the Thai population of C. siamensis from Appendix I to Appendix II 

was not approved in Committee I. Although gaining 58.5% of the votes, it did not receive the 

necessary two-thirds, and was therefore not adopted. Although the population still meets the 

criteria for Appendix-I listing, it is unlikely that the wild population in Thailand will ever be 

large. There are small amounts of available habitat, and due to the long absence of wild 

crocodiles, people are not accustomed to having them around and are therefore not highly 

supportive of the introduction of crocodiles back into the wild. Thailand reopened the debate on 

this proposal in Plenary, but again did not get the necessary two-thirds of the votes for 

adoption. 

3. Thailand also proposed the transfer of its C. porosus population from Appendix I to Appendix 

II. The proposal gained 53.0% of the votes and was not adopted. The population still meets the 

criteria for Appendix-I listing, and is very small. Like C. siamensis, the ability to re-establish 

large wild populations of C. porosus in Thailand is greatly constrained by the extent of suitable 

habitat. 

The opportunity was taken to discuss various conservation and management issues with some 

Parties: 

4. Ethiopia: Two crocodile ranches are currently in operation, both based on the collection of C. 

niloticus hatchlings from Lake Chamo. The Ethiopian population was down-listed to Appendix 

II, initially under Resolution Conf. 5.21 (1990; CoP7) as a temporary measure in order to 

export rapidly accumulating ranched products, and later under Resolution Conf. 3.15 (1992; 

CoP8), for the purposes of ranching and limited trophy hunting. Ranching has continued, but 

trophy hunting was recently prohibited, although the basis of this decision is now being reexamined. 

The policy of returning a percentage of ranched crocodiles back into the wild also 

merits re-examination in light of the current status of the population. Discussions with the 

Ethiopian delegation at CoP16 also included the possibility of a CSG review with 

recommendations. 

5. Thailand: A reintroduction project for C. siamensis has been approved, and will involve 

collaboration between the crocodile farming industry, the Fisheries Department, and the 

National Parks Department. The proposed dam construction in Pang Sida National Park is 

likely to result in increased habitat for reintroduced Siamese crocodiles. Few areas in Thailand 

are considered suitable for the reintroduction of crocodiles. 

6. Costa Rica: The status of C. acutus in the Tempisque River area has prompted an assessment of 

options to reduce HCC, perhaps integrated with a sustainable use program. This issue will be 

discussed further through the CSG‟s Latin America and the Caribbean office, with the relevant 

Costa Rican authorities and NGOs involved in research and management of the species in that 

country. 

7. Israel: Authorities are looking for a “home” for some 200 sub-adult and adult C. niloticus, of 

South African origin, from Crocoloco Crocodile Farm. The facility has been forced to close, 

and relocation is considered the most desirable outcome for these animals. 

8. Uganda: The status of a research project being undertaken at Murchison Falls was discussed 

with members of the Ugandan delegation. The CSG was thanked for providing “crocodilian” 

literature, which greatly assisted the researchers in that country. 

9. Rwanda: There is interest by Government in developing a sustainable use program for Nile 

crocodiles.

The following CoP16 agenda items were of relevance to the CSG: 

10. Many crocodilian species have been transferred to Appendix II through the ranching resolution 

[Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15)]. However, changes to Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. 

CoP15) meant that ranching proposals, in addition to satisfying Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. 

CoP15), also had to meet the criteria of Annex I of Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15) for 

inclusion in Appendix II. 

The intent of the ranching resolution, to be able to transfer an Appendix-I population to 

Appendix II where it did not meet the criteria of Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15) for 

Appendix-II listing, but where there were clear conservation benefits to the population in doing 

so, was lost. 

At CoP15, the Parties adopted Decision 15.51, which directed the CITES Animals Committee 

to: 

“a) 

Evaluate the merit of reinstating the ability to transfer suitably qualified populations that 

continue to meet the criteria in Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15), Annex 1, for transfer 

from Appendix I to Appendix II pursuant to Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15) or 

Resolution Conf. 9.20 (Rev.); and 

b) If merit is found, draft a revision of paragraph A. 2 in Annex 4 of Resolution Conf. 9.24 

(Rev. CoP15) to eliminate the requirement that downlisting proposals pursuant to 

Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15) or Resolution Conf. 9.20 (Rev.) must also meet the 

criteria in Annex 1 of Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15).” 

CoP16 adopted revisions to paragraph A. 2 of the Precautionary Measures in Annex 4 to 

Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15) proposed by the CITES Animals Committee (CoP16 Doc. 

72), which separate Resolution Conf. 11.16 (Rev. CoP15) as a „stand alone‟ alternative 

mechanism to submit down-listing proposals. 

In addition, although it was recognised that there was merit in merging Resolution Conf. 11.16 

(Rev. CoP15) and Resolution Conf. 9.20 (Rev.) (ranching of sea turtles), it was not considered 

a pressing issue at this time. The CITES Secretariat suggested that the Conference of Parties 

waits to see whether the changes to Resolution Conf. 9.24 (Rev. CoP15) leads to renewed 

interest in ranching proposals before proceeding further with this issue. 

11. At SC61 (August 2011) the European Union introduced document SC61 Doc. 27, drawing 

attention to problems of implementation of the Convention in relation to captive bred and 

ranched specimens. The CITES Standing Committee recognized that there were some problems 

and established a working group under the chairmanship of the USA, to identify the problems 

and to recommend solutions at SC62. 

The Standing Committee requested the CITES Secretariat to issue a Notification to the Parties 

(No. 2011/037), to seek information on the experience of Parties, and which could to be used as 

a basis for discussions of the working group. At SC62 (July 2012), the Standing Committee 

considered the working group‟s report (SC62 Doc. 26), which provided examples of specimens 

in trade that were possible cause for concern, and which may warrant further examination. 

Trade in Caiman crocodilus fuscus skins from Colombia was listed. 

The Standing Committee recommended that CoP16:

a) agree that Decisions 15.52 and 15.53, regarding development and review of a guide on the 

use of source codes, remain in effect following CoP16; and b) adopt a number of draft 

decisions ( including an evaluation of concerns identified in examples in document SC62 

Doc. 26) (CoP16.48). 

12. A document on CITES and Livelihoods (CoP16.19), prepared by the Chair of the Working 

Group on CITES and Livelihoods (Peru) on behalf the Standing Committee, with assistance 

from Colombia, UNEPWCMC, Alejandro Larriera and the CITES Secretariat, was submitted to 

CoP16 in response to Decision 15.6. 

A draft resolution on CITES and Livelihoods was discussed and adopted by Committee II. A 

number of decisions were also directed to the Parties, the Standing Committee and the CITES 

Secretariat. 

A side event on CITES and Livelihoods featured the Cispata Bay project with C. acutus in 

Colombia as one of the case studies. Clara Sierra Diaz provided an excellent presentation on 

how this project has the potential to benefit rural communities and crocodile conservation. 

Prepared by: 

Charlie Manolis, Tom Dacey, Hank Jenkins 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Industry 


Our recommended 2013 priorities were included in a “Happy New Year” update to the CSG 

Industry and Executive Committee. They included the following: 

The continuing trend of Animal Rights (AR) campaigns for exotic leather product bans remains a 

central concern. The latest (Ann Inc., attached) joins Cole Hahn (NIKE subsidiary) and 

Overstock.com in product bans. While these companies are not major players in the trade, each 

success encourages more AR targeting up the line. 

Perhaps more damaging is the press coverage that accompanies each “victory”, without a 

concerted industry effort to correct the facts and better tell the sustainable use story. We’ve raised 

these points during several meetings of the UN Working Group on Reptiles (UNCTAD) and 

Sustainable Luxury Working Group. Priorities of these working groups are still developing, but 

there is some indication the Marsh to Market story will be part of the 3-year program under 

consideration. 

Ironically, what happens with the Snake Trade will again carry over to crocodilians and other 

reptiles in trade. It is easy and effective for AR groups to lump all reptile trades together and use 

the weakest links to cast dispersion on the entire chain. The counter is to do a better job 

distinguishing those species that are legal, sustainable and verifiable (traceable and independently 

monitored). A complimentary strategy is to enhance those programs that could benefit from: 

1) Capacity Building (expertise) 

2) Institutional Frameworks (management) 

3) Compliance audits (enforcement) 

4) Non-detriment Findings (research) 

5) Traceability (tagging) 

6) Trade Monitoring (IACTS) 

In the end, the above are only as good as the dedicated funding that supports them and this is the 

actual weakest link in the chain. Nothing new here except the year. 

Best Management Practices (BMP’s), humane killing guidelines, compliance reviews and capacity 

building are the currencies to sustain sustainable use. Industry should rally first and fast to preempt 

wider product bans, correct public misconceptions and better tell the Marsh to Market story 

with benefits to conservation (wildlife habitats) and communities (local people). A broken record I 

know, but central to continued success. 

The alternative will be much clearer when AR groups target specific markets rather than the 

current company-by-company trade ban approach. California is particularly worrisome. The

second sunset clause expires at the end of 2014 that exempted crocodilians from a Penal Code 

prohibition against the sale of some finished wildlife products. Unfortunately Python is also listed 

and technically prohibited by the same law, which may provide a national or international forum 

for major AR groups to rally around. Soon they will remember that what actually killed the 

alligator trade in the 1960s was the New York Mason Act which prohibited the sale of all 

manufactured products. State by state product ban initiatives, targeted countries (Switzerland) or 

regional economic groups (EU) are much bigger game, fund-raising potential and media markets to 

capitalize on. We must not lose California, which only adopted the last 6-year sunset by a 1 vote 

margin. What would likely come next is much more worrisome. 

We have a strategy and Louisiana’s support, but the respective size of “war chests” are not even 

close. Maybe we pull off a third California miracle, but the margins would be better if all 

crocodilians in trade enhanced the 6 sustainable use building blocks listed and the snake trade got 

a fast start to implement them as well. Industry should consider ways to help fast track better 

implementation (i.e. equipment, training, consultation, trouble-shooting, etc.). With adequate 

resources CSG can better lead the way for crocodilians that benefit from sustainable trade. 

CITES CoP16 (March 2013) was instructive on many levels, particularly the continuing focus and 

concerns related to the python trade as well as other reptiles. The adoption of Snake Trade Working 

Group Document Com. 1.9 and previous CITES Decision 15.75 leaves no doubt these issues will be 

addressed in 2014 to 2016 through intercessional committees (Animals and Standing) and CoP17 

(tentatively scheduled for South Africa, 2016). 

A Traceability and Sustainability Study was co-commissioned by the United Nations Conference on 

Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the CITES Secretariat. I will undertake this “fast-track” 

Study to be completed in just 5 months. This further underscores the urgency and priority of these 

issues to CITES and other international organizations. 

Another study due for release in May is the “Expert Panel on Humane Killing of Reptiles” that 

evaluated 14 euthanasia techniques, listed 6 as unacceptable methods and recommended a context 

for the remaining 8 acceptable humane killing methods. The Final Report will be submitted to the 

OIE (World Organization for Animal Health) for consideration as a worldwide standard on 

slaughtering methods. The OIE also sets standards on general animal welfare and the increased 

focus on reptile transport, housing and “farming” should be a heads-up to industry to ensure our 

“houses“ are in order. 

In summary, the California Sunset implications are uncertain until the process begins. What is 

certain is substantially increased Animal Rights and welfare focus, enormous “war chests” 

(Humane Society and PETA alone collected $250 million in contributions in 2012), substantial 

international focus (CITES and other organizations) and a trade that is at best marginally prepared 

for major trade ban campaigns. Another broken record, but same verse - more industry support is 

needed for trade that is legal, sustainable and verifiable (traceable and independently monitored) 

with benefits to commerce (economic incentives), conservation (wetlands and natural habitats) and 

communities (local people and cultures). 

The best counterpoints to trade bans are benefits to local people and their link to natural areas and 

heritage-based communities. We call it Marsh to Market.

Prepared by: 

Don Ashley, Vice Chair 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Trade Monitoring 


Trade data on crocodilians are mostly obtained from CITES annual reports that should be submitted 

by 31 October of the year following that in which the trade occurred. The most recent year, 

therefore, for which we have reasonably complete data, is 2011. The deadline for 2011 reports is 

long past but as usual, some countries that are key players in trade in crocodilians have failed to 

report. Although problematic, this is not necessarily disastrous as the data from an exporting 

country may be recorded in the annual reports of importing countries. The real problem occurs 

when both ends of the trade route fail to report adequately. In addition to CITES annual reports we 

have access to data from the Crocodile Farmers Association of Zimbabwe and from the Fishery 

Statistics Division of FAO. 

Annual reports that might improve our understanding of recent trade, that have yet to be submitted 

include Australia (2011), Bolivia (2008, 2009 and 2011), Botswana (2011), Cuba (2011), Honduras 

(2011), Malawi (2010, 2011), Mozambique (2011), Nicaragua (2010, 2011), Philippines (2010, 

2011) and Uganda (2010, 2011). At the 21st Working Meeting of CSG talks were held with the 

representatives of Mainland Holdings of Papua New Guinea and the CITES Management Authority 

that resulted in the submission of reports for the years 2008 to 2011, thus saving the imposition of 

trade restrictions by the CITES Standing Committee. 

Since the 20th Working Meeting, a report on trade in crocodilian skins up to 2010 was completed 

(IACTS2012) and skin trade data has again been collated for the FAO Fishery Yearbook. Results 

from the latest IACTS report indicate that the trade appears to have begun to pick up after three 

years of decline with just over 1.3 million skins entering trade in 2010. Preliminary data for 2011 

suggest a similar total to the previous year although it appears caiman and Nile crocodile trade may 

have increased while exports of American alligator decreased. Thanks are due to Don Ashley and 

the Louisiana Alligator Advisory Counsel for the funding that allows the trade monitoring to be 

continued. 

Prepared by: 

John Caldwell, Vice Chair, Trade Monitoring 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Veterinary Science 


The Mission of the CSG Veterinary Science group is to: 

• provide a platform for the exchange of and access to specific veterinary knowledge and advise 

the CSG on veterinary matters related to crocodilian conservation; 

• contribute to advancing crocodile veterinary medicine and science; and, 

• provide support to animals under human care: farms and zoological or educational institutions, 

biologists and researchers that require veterinary support in their work such as sampling, 

anesthesia, surgery, etc., conservation, research, NGO and Government organizations 

investigating in-situ mortalities and population health status. 

1. Dr. Cathy Shilton (Senior Veterinary Pathologist at the Berrimah Veterinary Laboratories, 

Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries, Northern Territory Government, Australia) was 

invited to join the Veterinary Science group. This brings the total official members to 14 [Paolo 

Martelli (Vice Chair), Fritz Huchzermeyer, Terry Cullen, Samuel Seashole, Manuel Muñiz, 

John Cooper, Javier Nevarez, Silke Pfitzer, Ian Jerret, Samuel Martin, Brian Stacy, Danny 

Govender, Gowri Mallapur, Cathy Shilton]. 

2. The CSG website upgrade has progressed further, and now boasts the following resources: 

a. Step by Step Guide and Reporting Form for the Necropsy of Crocodilians (English) 

(prepared by Dr. Paolo Martelli and Dr. Fritz Huchzermeyer) 

b. Guia Paso por Paso y Formato de Reporte para la Necropsia de Crocodilianos (Espanol) 

(preparado por Dr. Paolo Martelli y Dr. Fritz Huchzermeyer) 

c. Manuel Operatoire et Formulaire pour la Realisation d'Autposies de Crocodiliens 

(Francais) (prepare par Dr. Paolo Martelli et Dr. Fritz Huchzermeyer) 

d. Literature relating to crocodilian immobilization (compiled by Dr. Annabelle Olsson) 

e. Link to the Histopathology site (Spectrum WebViewer) 

A Manual for Parasite Collection and Preservation is in preparation, as well as a Checklist of 

Crocodilian Parasites (Dr. Marissa Tellez). 

3. Workshop on Crocodile Clinical Techniques 

This will take place immediately prior to the CSG meeting in Sri Lanka and will introduce a 

number of field staff in clinical techniques and necropsy techniques of crocodilians

4. Taipei Tomistoma Workshop 

In 2012, on the initiative of the Taipei Zoo, a workshop was organized to brainstorm the 

possibilities presented by the presence of 72 pre-CITES Tomistoma in country, more than in 

Europe and North America combined. 

Prepared by: 

Vice Chair, Paolo Martelli 



Negombo, Sri Lanka 

20 May 2013 (9.00 am-4.00 pm) 



Zoos 

Report on Activities 

1. We have very good relationships with zoos and zoo professionals in North American and 

in Europe, and on-going relationships with less communication in Australia, Latin 

America, and South Asia. We continue to have only occasional exchanges with zoos in 

other parts of the world, especially Asia and Africa. I hope to strengthen ties with Asian 

zoo professional during this CSG meeting. 

2. The AZA Crocodilian Advisory Group (CAG) continues to advance crocodilian 

husbandry and exhibitory in zoos, train new generations of croc biologists, promote 

captive breeding programs for endangered and critically endangered crocodilian species, 

and provide support and technical assistance to in situ conservation programs for 

endangered crocodilians. 

a. The CAG held its 27th annual meeting in March followed immediately by the 13th 

year of offering the Crocodilian Biology and Captive Management professional 

training course. The course has now trained almost 250 zoo professionals in aspects 

of crocodilian biology and captive management and husbandry. 

b. The CAG now maintains cooperative breeding programs for all of the endangered 

crocodilian species. In the past year, the CAG added a new studbook program for 

Orinoco Crocodiles maintained by CSG member Luis Sigler. 

3. Kevin Torregrosa, Curator of Reptiles at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological 

Park (SAAF) has been elected the new Chinese alligator SSP 

a. Coordinator by the CAG steering committee. Bill Orrico of the Bronx Zoo was 

elected vice-coordinator. SAAF held a fund raising event throughout last October for 

Chinese alligator conservation resulting in more than $1,900 in donations. 

b. In the past year, the CAG has provided financial assistance for a reintroduction 

program for Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia run by Flora and Fauna International. 

The CAG steering committee also sent emergency funds to FFI for an emergency 

relocation project for Siamese crocodiles threatened by a reinstated dam project in the 

Areng Valley of Cambodia. 

c. The CAG published the 2 nd edition of its North American Regional Collection Plan 

late last year (https://ams.aza.org/iweb/upload/RCP_Crocodilian2012-2b8dfda9.pdf). 

3. The San Diego Zoo successfully imported 10 small Gharials from the Madras Crocodile 

Bank Trust this past year after enduring more than 5 years of permit application processes 

in the USA and India. The new Gharials are being housed at the San Diego Zoo for the

next year at least but some will eventually be moved to other North American zoos to 

supplement the Gharial breeding program. 

4. The San Diego Zoo and Busch Gardens Tampa are currently working with CSG member 

Dr. Matt Shirley to import 6-8 adult Mecistops cataphractus from the Abidjan Zoo in 

Ivory Coast. Donations from these zoos and other North American institutions will be 

used to redesign and renovate existing crocodile enclosures at the zoo and to build new 

hatchling and growout facilities for captive breeding, headstart reintroduction program 

Dr. Shirley is establishing there. Over the past few years, the San Diego Zoo has provided 

grants totaling $10,000 to Dr. Shirley for work related to African Slender-snouted 

crocodiles and other Central and West African crocodile species. 

5. CSG member and CSG TTF Chair Bruce Shwedick, plus a consortium of other specialists 

is developing the Crocodilian Conservation Center of Florida on a 16-acre property near 

Frostproof, Florida. Land is currently being cleared. Ultimately, this facility will be able 

to provide secluded breeding enclosures from crocodilians as well as hold surplus or 

program crocodilians for other facilities. 

6. The Wildlife Conservation Society sent CSG member Steve Platt to China to re-establish 

contacts and receive updates on Chinese alligator conservation, captive breeding and 

reintroduction programs there. 

7. A small group of zoo professional and private croc enthusiasts have been holding 

fundraising events in Florida, now known as “Croc Fest” since 2010. The events are 

organized by CSG members Shawn Hefleck, Bruce Shwedick, Flavio Morrissiey, Colette 

Adams and Curt Harbsmeier. Each event has grown in both attendance and the amount of 

monies raised from croc conservation projects. Two fundraisers in 2011 produced $4000 

and $9000 respectively. The last one, held last December, raised an astounding $15,000. 

Each event raises money for a specific conservation project selected in advance by the 

organizers. 

8. We are currently planning a special half-day session related to the contributions of zoos in 

crocodilian conservation at the next CSG meeting in 2014. 

Reports by European Zoos on Crocodilian - related ex-situ and in-situ conservation 

programs (submitted to vice-chair for Zoos by Ralf Sommerlad). 

1. Cologne Zoo (Curator and CSG member Thomas Ziegler) is participant of the Philippine 

Crocodile Conservation Program and also strongly supported croc conservation projects 

in East-Kalimantan and Vietnam, has been appointed as studbook keeper of the 

European Studbook (ESB) by EAZA for C.mindorensis . Several papers on husbandry 

and planning / construction of Colognes exhibit have been published. Thomas Ziegler 

was also scientific advisor of CSG member Natascha Behler, who did her diploma on the 

status, biology and conservation of the Siamese Crocodile in Danau Mesangat (East 

Kalimantan). Dr. Ziegler and members of the Aquarium staff participated essentially 

also in a new and still unpublished book-chapter on proper captive husbandry of 

commonly kept crocodilians in private hands to be published by the German 

Herpetological Society (DGHT).

a) Student theses conducted at Cologne Zoo’s crocodilian working group 1) BEHLER, 

N. (2012): Biology, morphology, taxonomy and distribution of the Siamese 

crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) in its remaining natural habitat in Indonesia, 

Mesangat, East Kalimantan - Diploma thesis, University of Bonn. 2) KNEZEVIC, 

K. (2012): Social behaviour of Philippine crocodiles (Crocodylus mindorensis). - 

Bachelor thesis, University of Cologne. 3) TIFLOVA, L. (2012): Conservation 

breeding of the Philippine crocodile: Social behaviour investigations at the public 

exhibit of the Cologne Zoo. - Master thesis, University of Cologne. 

b) Papers. 

1. Ziegler, T., Sommerlad, R., Brass, W., van der Straeten, K., Karbe, D. & A. 

Rauhaus (2012): Philippinenkrokodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) im Aquarium 

des Kölner Zoos. Teil 1: Erfahrungen mit der „Off-Exhibit“ Haltung einer der 

am stärksten bedrohten Krokodilarten der Welt. – Reptilia, März 2012: 44-50. 

2. Ziegler, T., Sommerlad, R., Brass, W., Van Der Straeten, K., Karbe, D. & A. 

RAUHAUS (2012) Philippinenkrokodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) im 

Aquarium des Kölner Zoos. Teil 2: Der Bau einer Schauanlage für eine der am 

stärksten bedrohten Krokodilarten der Welt. - Reptilia, Mai 2012: 47-55. 

3. Hauswaldt, J. S., Vences, M., Louis, E., Brennemann, R. & T. Ziegler (2013): 

Genetic screening of captive Philippine crocodiles (Crocodylus mindorensis) as 

prerequisite for starting a conservation breeding program in Europe. - 

Herpetological Conservation and Biology, accepted. 

4. Studbook: Ziegler, T, Rauhaus, A., & D. Karbe (2013): Philippine Crocodile 

(Crocodylus mindorensis). European Studbook (ESB), first edition. – Cologne 

Zoo, pp. 1-40. 

2. ARTIS Royal Zoo, Amsterdam (Curator Warren Spencer), submitted: ‘At Artis Royal 

Zoo our intention was to build a new Tomistoma schlegelii exhibit to allow us to support 

the ESB as a breeding facility. The exhibit construction phase is currently underway and 

great progress is being made. The new Tomistoma exhibit at Artis is enlarged from the 

previous situation giving more terrestrial and aquatic space and has many new design 

features such as computer-controlled environmental systems and UV transmitting 

roofing. Enriching design components such as waterfalls, shallows and simulated rain 

programmes are also included. We hope that these improvements will provide even 

greater stimulus for our group to breed and contribute to the breeding program of this 

endangered species.’ 

3. Dortmund Zoo (submitted by Director and CSG-member Frank Brandstaetter) 

In full accordance with the statutes of the World Zoo and Aquarium Conservation 

Strategy Dortmund Zoo is proud to be involved in major conservation projects around 

the world. The popularity of zoos helps rising awareness for conservation issues. Thus, 

the animal collections serve more to promote the protection of nature than merely being 

exhibit animals for the pleasure of human beings. Zoos contribute to the high educational 

levels of our human societies. One of the major projects at Dortmund Zoo is promoting is 

the protection and conservation of the Mesangat area (Borneo) which proved to be one of 

nature's hotspots in that area. Mesangat swamp forest is particularly unique in being the 

home of two rare crocodile species: the Siamese crocodile as well as the Tomistoma. 

Although there is lot of wildlife involved in the protection of this area the two crocodile 

species have been chosen as flag species for that biotope and Dortmund Zoo is 

promoting them. Through the generosity of its visitors Dortmund Zoo is providing

funding for research aimed at the conservation of Mesangat. Dortmund Zoo's main 

subject is the faunas of South America. Caimans make a natural and popular part of that. 

Therefore, Dortmund Zoo is exhibiting one of the smallest species of caimans, the dwarf 

caiman Paleosuchus trigonatus, and puts a lot of efforts in the improving of husbandry 

conditions for that species as well in the educational aspects of crocodiles in total and 

their conservation needs. 

4. Protivin Crocodile Zoo (submitted by CSG member Miroslav Prochazka) Is working as a 

private operation and reported the successful breeding of proven pure C. rhombifer, C. 

siamensis and C. palustris and the first egg-laying for G. gangeticus in Europe, the 

clutch was unfortunately infertile. The construction of the zoo has now been finished 

with strong support by the EU. The Protivin Crocodile Zoo supports the Danau Mesangat 

Crocodile Conservation Project by selling booklets on crocodiles and collecting visitor 

donations. The Croc Zoo is also founding member of “Czechcrocs”, a society that 

includes both private keepers and zoos. 

5. Dvur Kralove Zoo (General Curator and CSG-member Pavel Moucha) participates in the 

Tomistoma ESB. Another unfortunately infertile clutch has been reported. Pavel Moucha 

is serving as Chairman of the “Czechcrocs” Society, which is supporter of the Siamese 

Crocodile Conservation Program in Cambodia. Leipzig Zoo (submitted by CSG member 

and Senior Curator Fabian Schmidt) was working mainly on -Implementation of the 

results and consequences of the Genetic differentiation of the African dwarf crocodiles 

(Osteolaemus tetraspis) published in 2011 (several transports to put together pure 

potential breeding pairs). - Collecting and analyzing more samples of zoos and private 

keepers, that did not participate in the study so far. This included samples from animals 

originating from Liberia and Togo, filling unsampled gaps in the distribution area of this 

species complex. Papers: Franke, Protivin Crocodile Zoo supports the Danau Mesangat 

Crocodile Conservation Project by selling booklets on crocodiles and collecting visitor 

donations. The Croc Zoo is also founding member of “Czechcrocs”, a society that 

includes both private keepers and zoos. 

6. Dvur Kralove Zoo (General Curator and CSG-member Pavel Moucha) participates in the 

Tomistoma ESB. Another unfortunately infertile clutch has been reported. Pavel Moucha 

is serving as Chairman of the “Czechcrocs” Society, which is supporter of the Siamese 

Crocodile Conservation Program in Cambodia. Leipzig Zoo (submitted by CSG-member 

and Senior Curator Fabian Schmidt) was working mainly on -Implementation of the 

results and consequences of the Genetic differentiation of the African dwarf crocodiles 

(Osteolaemus tetraspis) published in 2011 (several transports to put together pure 

potential breeding pairs). - Collecting and analyzing more samples of zoos and private 

keepers that did not participate in the study so far. This included samples from animals 

originating from Liberia and Togo, filling unsampled gaps in the distribution area of this 

species complex. Papers: Franke, F.A., Schmidt, F., Borgwardt, C., Bernhard, D., 

Bleidorn, C., Engelmann, W.-E. & M. Schlegel (2012): Genetic differentiation of the 

African dwarf crocodile Osteolaemus tetraspis COPE, 1861 (Crocodylia: Crocodylidae) 

and consequences for European zoos. – Organsims, Diversity and Evolution. Activities 

in EAZA: Replacement of Vice chair within EAZA Reptile Taxon Advisory Group 

(TAG) with special responsibilities for Crocodylia: Michael Jorgensen (Hoor Zoo, 

Sweden) was replaced by CSG-member Fabian Schmidt (Zoo Leipzig, Germany). The 

TAG oversees the running of three ESBs (European Studbooks) for Tomistoma 

schlegelii kept by Gonzalo Fernandez-Hoyo (Bioparc Fuengirola), for Osteolaemus

tetraspis kept by Fabian Schmidt, Zoo Leipzig, and Crocodylus rhombifer kept by 

Michael Bungard, Paignton Zoo. Additionally in 2012 a new ESB was established, one 

for the Philippine crocodile, Crocodylus mindorensis kept by CSG-member Thomas 

Ziegler at Cologne Zoo. There is one EEP (European Endangered Species Programme) 

for Chinese alligators, Alligator sinensis, kept by Henrik Herold of Randers Regnskov, 

which is under evaluation and critical review beginning of 2013 in order to improve its 

functionality. Neunkirchen Zoo (Director: Norbert Fritsch) submitted: Neunkircher 

Zoologischer Garten in the south west of Germany joined the EAZA-IUCN/SCC- 

Southeastasiacampaign in 2011 as full member of the European Association of Zoos and 

Aquaria (EAZA) and is engaging in awareness-raising and to raise funds for the 

campaign. The focus of the animal stock at Neunkircher Zoo is the asian, especially the 

southeastasian fauna with Asian elephants, Sumatran orang-utans, Indochinese sika deer, 

Edward´s pheasant, Rhinoceros ratsnake and other species. Since the fall of 2012 

especially for the Lake Mesangat crocodile conservation project by YASIWA foundation 

as one of the campaign projects, there´s a information panel and a collective box to 

donate money in the Small Tropicalhouse of Neunkircher Zoo in the nearest of the 

Sumatran orang-utans. Another actions for Lake Mesangat are lectures, photo exhibition, 

a Mesangat action day with edutainement and info points and many more to raise funds 

for the South-East-Asia Campaign and Lake Mesangat . 

7. Krokodille Zoo Eskilstrup (Director and CSG-member Rene Hedegaard) recently 

reported the first egg-laying for C. mindorensis in Europe. 

8. Ralf Sommerlad attended at the “Night for the Crocs” CSG-TTF event at Miami Zoo and 

at the EAZA Reptile & Amphibian TAG meeting at Leipzig Zoo. He also assisted for 

Amsterdam Zoo, Holland and Heidelberg Zoo, Germany as consultant on planning new 

crocodilian exhibits and for Chester Zoo in crocodilian issues. He also gave several 

lectures and presentations in different zoos on crocodile conservation and sustainable use 

issues. 

9. Papers: 

a. SOMMERLAD, R. (2012): Danau Mesangat: Wie Zoologische Gärten 

beispielgebend helfen ZGAP – Mitt. 1/2012 SOMMERLAD R. (2012) : 

Artenvielfalt in Ost – Kalimantan und der unverzichtbare Beitrag von Zoos zu deren 

Schutz – Neunkircher zoo-logisch, 28-29 

b. Ziegler, T., Sommerlad, R., Brass, W., van der Straeten, K., Karbe, D. & A. Rauhaus 

(2012): Philippinenkrokodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) im Aquarium des Kölner 

Zoos. Teil 1: Erfahrungen mitder „Off-Exhibit“ Haltung einer der am stärksten 

bedrohten Krokodilarten der Welt. – Reptilia, März 2012: 44-50. 

c. . Ziegler, T., Sommerlad, R., Brass, W., Van Der Straeten, K., Karbe, D. & A. 

RaUHAUS (2012): Philippinenkrokodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) im Aquarium 

des Kölner Zoos. Teil 2: Der Bau einer Schauanlage für eine der am stärksten 

bedrohten Krokodilarten der Welt. - Reptilia, Mai 2012: 47-55. 

d. SHWEDICK, B., SOMMERLAD, R. & G. WEBB (2013): New Hope for the 

endangered Tomistoma - Reptiles magazine, March 2013, 46-51 

Prepared by: 

Kent A. Vliet 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Draft Agenda Item SC.4.6. 


Community Education Group 

Background: 

The CSG Steering Committee agreed in Manila, Philippines, (21 May 2012), that the “Zoos and 

Community Education” be split into two thematic groups, with one covering “Community 

Education” and the other covering “Zoos” (Vice Chairman Dr. Kent Vliet). 

The CSG Chair proposed Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz to be Chair of the “new” Community Education 

Working Group, and she accepted the position. It is anticipated that the Community Education 

group will comprise interested people who can meet and/or communicate to discuss how 

community education can be used to further conservation and management of crocodilians. 

Mission 

The proposed Mission of the Community Education group is: to assist the IUCN-SSC Crocodile 

Specialist Group (CSG) to meet its mission with regard to the conservation, management and 

sustainable utilization of world crocodilians through community education. 

However, in light of discussions and other international initiatives (see Action 3 below), it is 

proposed that the Mission be modified: to assist the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) 

to meet its mission with regard to the conservation, management and sustainable utilization of 

world crocodilians through public education and local community participation. 

Activities 

The following actions were established with respect to getting the group started: 

Action 1. 

Establish membership of the group. This may involve the development of simple 

protocols for membership, and assignment of key people in different regions. 

Draft terms of reference and invitation to participate in the group were sent to identified 

people in different regions, including Myrna Cureg (Philippines), Marites Gatan-Balbas 

(Philippines), Sarah Brook (Cambodia), Kent Vliet (USA), Yosapong Temsiripong 

(Thailand), Oswald Bracken (Sarawak, Malaysia), Anslem de Silva (Sri Lanka), Charlie 

Manolis (Australia) and Jeronimo Laso-Dominguez (Mexico).

Action 2. 

Compile information that can be posted on the CSG website, describing the group’s 

goals, aims, etc. 

The group is now compiling information (eg case studies) that can be posted on the 

website, some of which need to be translated first. 

Action 3. 

Facilitate information exchange between members, particularly with respect to the 

development of short-, medium- and long-term goals. 

Discussion has focused in the first instance on whether the name of the group is the 

most appropriate to describe future activities and goals, and whether the mission 

statement adequately covers the issues. 

As pointed out by some members of the group, it is not only communities that need to 

be educated, but the public in general. In light of recent CITES initiatives on “CITES 

and Livelihoods”, the active participation of local communities in conservation and 

management (including sustainable use) of crocodilians is recognized as a vehicle for 

effective conservation. It is proposed that the name of the group encompass these 

initiatives (eg Public Education and Community Participation). 

Action 4. 

Establish a "priority circulation list" for new information and progress. 

The Chair is completing a priority circulation list. 

Action 5. Conduct affairs in an open, transparent and professional manner. 

It is the goal of the group to expand participation and ensure open and transparent 

conduct of affairs. 

Since the Manila meeting (May 2012), the Chair had been involved with preparation of the 

Colombian proposal to CoP16 to downlist the Cispata Bay population of Crocodylus acutus to 

Appendix II. For this reason progress has been delayed, but it is envisaged that the group will be 

more active from now on. 

Prepared by: 

Clara Lucia Sierra Diaz 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



General Research 


Despite the economic downturn of the past couple of years, the number of papers dealing with 

crocodilians remains high. The completion of the genome sequences for Alligator mississippiensis 

and Crocodylus porosus has provided a valuable resource for evolutionary biologists. A number of 

researchers are currently studying differences among mammal, bird, lizard, etc., genomes with 

those of the crocodiles. Also, comparative chromosome painting (Uno et al. 2012) has shown that 

large regions of chromosomes from crocodiles, birds, frogs etc. share many genes linked together in 

groups, but often on different chromosomes. 

New discoveries of fossil crocodilians seem to occur on a monthly basis (see Holliday and Gardner 

2012; Martin et al. 2012; Parilla-Bel et al. 2013; Puertolas et al. 2011). 

A major threat to alligator populations in the USA is the spread of feral swine. In recent years the 

numbers of feral swine throughout the continental US have increased dramatically. In addition to 

causing damage to agricultural crops and gardens, wild pigs have been observed destroying alligator 

nests and eating the eggs (Elsey et al. 2012). It is not clear at present if these depredations are 

serious enough to pose a serious threat to alligator populations. 

It was gratifying to see that a student from Jim Hicks’ laboratory had published a paper on the 

clutch effect on the physiology of neonate alligators (Bagatto et al. 2012). Some years earlier I had 

pointed out to Jim that the reason he couldn’t show a statistically significant effect of arterial 

clamping on growth of neonatal alligators was because he hadn’t controlled for the clutch effect. 

Diane Kelly published an elegant anatomical study on the cloacal musculature of the male alligator, 

and how this musculature works to evert the penis, and how retraction of the penis due to elastic 

recoil (Kelly 2013). 

Modern imaging techniques have greatly enhanced publications in anatomy. What used to be dry 

descriptions of bones and muscles etc. are now multicolored and even 3D presentations that are a 

delight to the eye. Crocodilian science continues to grow and to fascinate. 

Bagatto, B., D.A. Crossley, J. Altimiras, R.M. Elsey and J. Hicks. (2012) Physiological variability 

in yearling alligators: clutch differences at rest and during activity. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 

162A: 44-50. 

Elsey, R.M., E.C. Mouton, Jr. and N. Kinler. (2012). Effects of feral swine (Sus scrofa) on alligator 

(Alligator mississippiensis) nests in Louisiana. Southeastern Naturalist. 11(2):205-218. 

Holliday, C.M. and Gardner, N.M. (2012). A new Eusuchian crocodyliform with novel cranial 

integument and its significance for the origin and evolution of Crocodilia. PLoS ONE 7: 1-13.

Kelly, D. A. (2013) Penile anatomy and hypotheses of rectile function in the American alligator 

(Alligator mississippiensis); Muscular eversion and elastic retraction. Anat. Rec. 296: 488-494. 

Martin, J.E., Buffetaut, E., Naksri, W., Lauprasert, K. and Calude, J. (2012)  Gavialis from the 

Pleistocene of Thailand and Its Relevance for Drainage Connections from India to Java. PLoS 

ONE 7(9): 1-14. 

Parrilla-Bel, J., M.T. Young, M. Moreno-Azanza and J.I. Canudo. (2013). The first metriorhynchid 

crocodylomorph from the muddle Jurassic of Spain, with implications for the evolution of the 

subclade Rhacheosaurini. PLOS ONE 

Puertolas, E., Canudo, J.I. and Crusado-Cabellero, P. (2011). A new Crocodylian from the Late 

Maastrichtian of Spain: Implications for the initial radiation of Crocodyloids. PLOS ONE 6: 1- 

12. 

Uno, Y., Nishida, C., Taui, H., Ishishita, S., Tagaki, C. Nishimura, O., Ishijima, J., Ota, H., Kosaka, 

A., Matsubara, K., Murakami, Y., Kuratani, S., Ueno, N., Agata, K. and Matsuda, Y. (2012) 

Inference of the protokaryotypes of amniotes and tetrapods and the evolutionary processes of 

microchromosomes from comparative gene mapping. PLOS ONE 7: 3-12. 

Walmsley, C.W., P.D. Smits, M.R. Quayle, M.R. McCurry, H.S. Richards, C.C. Oldfield, S. Wroe, 

P.D. Clausen and C.R. McHenry (2013). Why the long face? The mechanics of mandibular 

symphysis proportions in crocodiles. PLOS ONE 8: 1-34. 

Prepared by: 

Val Lance 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 


Red List 


Since May 2012 the following Red list assessment activities have been conducted: 

• C. siamenis assessment has been completed, approved, submitted to SSC/IUCN and is now 

posted. Thanks to assessors Mark Bezuijen, Boyd Simpson, Jenny Daltry, Natasha Behler, 

Yosapong Temsiripong and Steven Platt. The Red List status is Critically Endangered A2c. 

• The account for Tomistoma has been drafted reviewed and submitted for SSC/IUCN review, 

Thanks to assessors Bruce Shwedick, Mark Bezuijen. Boyd Simpson, Rob Steubing, Agata 

Staniewicz and Colin Stevenson. The Red List status proposed is Vulnerable A2cd. This 

represented better information but no change in actual status from previous listing as 

Endangered. 

• The assessment of C. mindorensis developed in Manila has been entered to SIS database and is 

in process of revision by the assessors - Merlijn van Weerd, Josephina Deleon, Pomares 

Cayatano, Vic Mercado, Ranier Manolo and Chris Banks. The Red List status proposed is 

Critically Endangered A2cd. 

• A draft assessment for C. niloticus is being prepared by Matt Shirley. 

After discussion with the CSG Chair, a request has been submitted to SSC/IUCN Red List staff to 

include an additional taxon C. ‘suchus’ in the Red List taxonomy representing those ‘nile crocodiles’ 

found in central and western Africa. Matt Shirley and colleagues propose to develop separate 

assessments for C. niloticus and C. ‘suchus’ due to their genetic distinctiveness, clear geographical 

separation and very different status. 

A Red List workshop will be held as part of the 22nd CSG Working Meeting in Colombo focusing 

on regional assessments of C. palustris, after which it is expected that the assessment drafted by 

assessors B.C. Choudhury, A. de Silva, R. Whitaker, D. Basu, A. Mobaraki, S.M.A. Rashid and S. 

Whitaker can be completed and submitted. The Red List status currently proposed is Vulnerable A2 

but there is discussion on whether current population decline qualifies it for Endangered. 

Additional Red List assessments will be initiated as assessors are identified and volunteer. 

Prepared by: 

James Perran Ross, Red List Focal point 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



CSG-Tomistoma Task Force Report 


Current CSG-TTF Members: 

Chair: Bruce Shwedick 

Vice-Chairs: Colin Stevenson, Uthen Youngprapakorn 

Core Members: Mark Auliya, Mark Bezuijen, Steve Conners, Charlie Manolis, Pavel Moucha, 

Bekky Muscher, Scott Pfaff, J. Perran Ross, Shahrul Anuar Mohn Sah, Boyd Simpson, Ralf 

Sommerlad, Agata Staniewicz, Tarto Sugiarto, Joe Wasilewski 

Funding: 

The Crocodilian Conservation Institute based in Dillon, South Carolina has expressed an interest in 

continuing to provide financial support for the CSG’s Tomistoma Task Force. 

A second “A Night for the Croc’s” fund raising event was held at Zoo Miami on 16 February 2013. 

The event was organized by Steve Conners, Bruce Shwedick, Joe Wasilewski and Stephenie 

Wasilewski. Ralf Sommerlad and Agata Staniewicz travelled from Europe to participate. The event 

had an attendance of approximately 150 and resulted in over $USD7000 being raised for 

Tomistoma conservation action. This included a $3000 donation from the Virginia Aquarium and 

Marine Science Center. A detailed report is being prepared for the CSG Newsletter. 

Activities: 

The revised update on the status of Tomistoma IUCN Red List was initiated by Perran Ross. It has 

been completed and submitted for final review. The assessors for this update were Mark Bezuijen, 

Bruce Shwedick, Boyd Simpson, and Robert Stuebing. Additional reviewers were Charlie Manolis, 

Ralf Sommerlad, Agata Staniewicz and Colin Stevenson. 

Agata Staniewicz presented a lecture on the ecology and conservation of crocodiles in East 

Kalimantan at Bristol Zoological Gardens on 3 October 2012. 

An article focusing on international efforts relating to Tomistoma conservation and progress on 

captive breeding and husbandry was written by Bruce Shwedick, Ralf Sommerlad and Grahame 

Webb and recently published in REPTILES magazine. 

Ralf Sommerlad along with Gonzalo Fernandez Hoyo has been providing technical assistance to the 

Amsterdam Zoo which is building a new exhibit for Tomistoma. Ralf is also continuing his 

supportive work along with EAZA and WAZA institutions for conservation efforts in Danau 

Mesangat now being undertaken by YASIWA, the Equator Conservation Foundation of Indonesia. 

Robert Stuebing is chairman of this non-profit foundation.

Bruce Shwedick, Ralf Sommerlad and Perran Ross met in Gainesville, Florida on 27 February 2013 

in order to discuss CSG-TTF future priorities and initiatives. 

Boyd Simpson has obtained permits to conduct surveys on Tomistoma in North Selangor Swamp 

Forest in Selangor State, and areas in and around the Southeast Pahang Peat Swamp Forest in 

Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. The surveys are being funded by the CSG-TTF. 

The CSG-TTF is currently awaiting a revised proposal and funding request from Fernando Potess of 

the PRCF in support of continued surveys and conservation action related to Tomistoma in Danau 

Sentarum National Park, West Kalimantan. 

CSG-TTF Mission to Singapore Zoo (29 May 2012): 

After receiving an invitation from Bernhard Santhosh, TTF members Becky Muscher and Colin 

Stevenson travelled to the Singapore Zoo following the CSG meeting in Manila, The purpose was 

to speak to zoo staff and to discuss future from the Singapore Zoo support for Tomistoma 

conservation. 

Singapore Zoo regularly hosts afternoon talks and presentations to their staff under the title of 

WOW: Windows On Wildlife. It was a good opportunity for TTF to be invited as a part of this 

program. The presentations themselves went well, with Becky discussing the husbandry and 

breeding of Tomistoma at San Antonio Zoo, and Colin presenting an overview of TTF, as well as 

an introduction to Madras Crocodile Bank, as requested. 

There were some questions following the sessions, and Becky’s experiences in breeding Tomistoma 

were of great interest to the zoo staff. 

Reptile Curator Bernhard Santhosh showed us around the zoo, concentrating on the zoo’s several 

Tomistoma exhibits and holding areas. 

Number of Tomistoma schlegelii seen at Singapore Zoo: 

1. Group of 4 large animals (2 pair) 

2. Pair of animals on display (very large male) 

3. Some young animals off display 

4. Two large males off display 

One of the main exhibits is an extremely large, well-landscaped enclosure with two pair of 

Tomistoma. The animals within are huge, with the largest male Tomistoma one of us (CS) had ever 

seen. Estimate at almost 5m TL. The curator expressed his frustration at the lack of breeding at the 

zoo. We felt that it was due to several regular moves - some to do with modifications to enclosures. 

Once the animals have a good chance to settle into the enclosure, with no disturbance from moving, 

then we feel the breeding will have more hope. 

Other enclosures were also discussed, and changes to husbandry and enclosure design were 

discussed. Such discussions extended to the Gharials that the zoo holds, where again, some straightforward 

modifications to enclosure design would see a much better chance of breeding success. 

One of the main things that we wanted to discuss was the future support of TTF by Singapore Zoo. 

At the time of these discussions, the feeling was that there was interest of course from the Curator, 

and one of the veterinarian team, but little financial support was possible at the present time.

However, given that there remains not only interest from staff at Singapore Zoo and the fact that 

they have a good number of large animals, we both feel that this is a relationship that can be 

developed and grown. 

Recommendations: 

Maintain contact with staff at the Singapore Zoo in order to exchange information on breeding 

efforts and captive husbandry of Tomistoma and to strengthen their relationship with the CSG-TTF. 

Develop a proposal for a Night of the Crocs at Singapore Zoo and/or other activities in order to raise 

public awareness and funding support in Asia for Tomistoma conservation. 

Papers: 

Kaur, T., Japning, J.R.R., Sabki, M.S., Sidik, I., Chong, L.K., Ong, A.H.K. (2013). Genetic 

diversity of Tomistoma schleglii inferred from mtDNA markers. Biochem. Genet. 51: 275-295. 

Shwedick, B,, Sommerlad, R. and Webb, G. (2013). New Hope for the Endangered Tomistoma - 

Reptiles Magazine, March 2013, 46-51. 

Prepared by: 

Bruce Shedwick, Chairman, CSG-TTF Working Group 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Human-Crocodile Conflict Working Group 


The Human-Crocodile Conflict (HCC) working group met at the Manila meeting in 2012 to discuss 

progress on past group objectives, provide an update to the CSG Chairman on the group’s progress, 

and make recommendations for future work. Rich Ferguson, who had chaired the group since its 

formation in 2002, was unable to attend the Manila meeting due other commitments, and also 

stepped down as Regional Chair for South and East Africa. Allan Woodward was asked to chair the 

group until the 22 nd Working Meeting (May 2014). 

In Manila, the group decided that some of the past objectives, such as guidelines for prevention of 

HCC and a fact sheet, were difficult to achieve and apply at a global level. The group also 

recognized the difficulties in generalizing about HCC because of variation in behaviour among 

crocodilian species, cultural and value differences of people within the range of each species, and 

differences in the capacity of management agencies to deal with HCC. 

Although information on HCC has been provided previously to the group, a database that could be 

readily used has not been available. Brandon Sideleau has continued efforts to improve global HCC 

data and to develop an online database. Working with Adam Britton, this database is now under 

construction. It is hoped that the database will be available to CSG members, and further 

discussions on how the CSG can be involved in this are underway. 

The HCC chair suggested that it would be beneficial if a compilation of case studies were available 

from which crocodilian management programs with emerging or escalating HCC problems could 

extract guidance in addressing those problems. To that end, the group concluded that a special 

session at the 2014 working meeting in Louisiana should be devoted to presentations of HCC case 

studies. The working group plans to invite speakers to present papers that will include HCC 

approaches for a broad array of crocodilian species, cultural standards, and program capacities. 

Papers would also be welcomed from contributors who cannot attend the meeting. If feasible, 

contributed papers would be lightly edited and compiled into a publication that would be made 

available through the CSG website. The 2013 working meeting in Sri Lanka will provide an 

opportunity for delegates from the Eastern Hemisphere, who may have difficulty attending the 

Louisiana meeting, to present HCC papers and contribute those papers to the publication. 

Prepared by: 

Allan Woodward 




20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Siamese Crocodile Task Force 

Background 

At the CSG Steering Committee Meeting held in Manila on 21 May 2012, “Yosapong Temsrirpong 

was requested to convene a C. siamensis Working Group to discuss what might be possible in 

respect of the common recommendations on compliance, capacity building, etc., and report back to 

the meeting”. A report on the subsequent meeting held on 23 May 2012 is at Attachment “A” 


1. Informal meeting among representatives and scientists concerning C. siamensis during CITES 

CoP16 in Bangkok. A regional working meeting of the task force will be held in Bangkok next 

year. 

2. Surveillance of C. siamensis diseases in captive breeding operations throughout Thailand. The 

information will use as baseline data for the establishment of guidelines for captive C. 

siamensis health care in the region. It will also be useful for crocodiles in the reintroduction 

program. 

3. Development of C. siamensis genetic database for captive and wild animals in the region and 

providing of genetic analysis service for reintroduction purposes as well as captive 

management. 

4. Organization of a regional workshop on C. siamensis reintroduction for exchange of 

information and techniques as well as experts. 

5. Survey of wild C. siamensis in Bueng Borapet and Planning for Reintroduction project in Pang 

Sida, Phase 2. 

Prepared by: 

Parntep Ratanakorn and Yosapong Temsiripong 

Date prepared: 29April 2013

Attachment “A” 

Siamese Crocodile Working Group 

Participants: Heng Sovannara, Luon Nam, Sam Han, Oudomxay Thongsavath, Kristian Robert 

Pahl, Steven Platt, Kumthon Suaroon, Bundit Kullavanijaya, Chanthone Phothitay, Charlie 

Manolis, Smith Thummachua, Terry Cullen, Yosapong Temsiripong 

A meeting was held on 23 May 2012. Participants included government representatives from 

Cambodia, Lao PDR and Thailand, and researchers working in the Range States. 

Yosapong reported that Dr. Parntep Ratanakorn had asked him to discuss the establishment of a 

Siamensis Crocodile Task Force. The main goal of this Task Force would be to improve networking 

and communication about C. siamensis conservation activities within and between Range States. 

Proposed positions are: Chairman: Dr. Parntep Ratanakorn (Chairman), country contacts: 

Cambodia, Heng Sovannara; Vietnam, TBC; Indonesia, TBC; Lao PDR, Chanthone Phothitay; 

Thailand: Bundit Kullavanijaya, Yosapong Temsiripong. 

Specific Terms of Reference will be developed as soon as the Task Force was approved by the CSG 

Executive. The Task Force would operate under the umbrella of the CSG. 

During the short period of the meeting, several issues were discussed, some of which could be 

addressed by the Task Force: 

1. Capacity Building: regional training and workshop, community based conservation. Dr. 

Ratanakorn hopes to have a Sub-regional Workshop for the Siamensis Crocodile Task Force 

at Mahidol University. Training material will be developed. Community-based conservation 

has been developed in Lao PDR and Cambodia, which can be shared among Range States. 

Cross border co-operation has been discussed to stop international illegal trade in live C. 

siamensis. 

2. Captive Management: standard marking system, hybridization, trade obstacles. marking 

system, Cambodia offer to mark wild crocodiles and released crocodiles with both microchip 

and scute-clipping. Other Range State may have more systems. There are still other issues not 

yet discussed in the meeting for example, hybridization. There is a need to develop a better 

understanding of the degree to which hybrids can be discerned from external morphology 

(morphometrics, scale and colour). Farmer Association is another issue not yet discussed. 

However, Thailand and Cambodia have already established such associations. that work 

closely with Government. 

3. Restoring wild population: re-introduction program. Terry Cullen offered to test DNA upon 

request. Some re-introductions have already occurred (eg Vietnam in 2000, Cambodia in 

2004, and Thailand in 2005). The Thai Government plans to release in Kaeng Krachan 

National Park and is preparing an awareness program. There is no demand for collecting wild 

crocodiles into farms. Moreover, each country already has internal control of the trade and 

movement of the animals. Problem in Vietnam around Cat Tien NP is that poor people may 

occasionally poach wild crocodiles for food, not for commercial purposes. Robert Pahl 

proposed that each country set up core area for crocodiles, Cambodia consider stopping 

fishing in known crocodile habitat around Tonle Sap, and an incentive program for

accidentally caught wild crocodiles in exchange for rice. Steve Platt suggested a population 

viability analysis to prioritize potential release sites. 

In summary, Government policy in Range States is to sustainably use this species by following the 

country master plan to continue re-introducing purebred C. siamensis into protected areas as well as 

facilitate trade of the species by helping legal trade in terms of issuing practical regulation and 

reducing trade obstacles. The transfer of the species from CITES Appendix I to Appendix II was 

discussed and proposal will be developed in parallel to the increasing wild population and better 

protection, which will need advice from CSG.



Negombo, Sri Lanka 

20 May 2013 (9.00 am-4.00 pm) 


SPACE AND HUSBANDRY STANDARDS FOR CAPTIVE CROCODILIANS 

The following is a working draft document and is not yet complete. All statements made 

within have not been fully reviewed as discussed by the working group and should not 

be interpreted as the final recommendations of this working group to the CSG 

Executive Committee or the CSG Steering Committee. Following discussions from this 

CSG steering committee meeting, this document will be revised, completed and 

circulated prior to the 2014 meeting. 

CSG Working Group 

The CSG Executive Committee meeting (20 April 2012) in Manila and the CSG Steering 

Committee meeting the next day, discussed the needs for clearly define acceptable space and 

husbandry guidelines for captive crocodilians in zoos. The Executive Committee established 

a working group (comprising CSG members Kent Vliet, Ralf Sommerlad and Rene 

Hedegaard) to look at the issues of “Space and husbandry standards for captive crocodilians” 

and report back to the CSG before the next Working meeting (May 2013). 

INTRODUCTION 

This issue was discussed briefly in the CSG meeting in Manaus in 2010. Almost all 

discussion revolves around minimal space requirements, with little attention given to other 

important husbandry and management considerations, such as temperature, nutritional 

requirements, temperament or other social considerations. 

Where regulations or requirements have been enacted legislatively, they vary widely from 

one jurisdiction to the next. Within the United States, state wildlife authorities, at least those 

within the natural range of the American alligator, each have regulations regarding fencing 

height and construction, space requirements, land to water ratios, size dependent stocking 

densities, etc. 

Several governing authorities have published their crocodilian husbandry standards. The 

German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection published general 

standards for all reptile species, including crocodilians more than 15 years ago (BMELV, 

1997), but these do not take differences in the husbandry or management of different species 

of crocodilians into consideration. Very little has been published in the peer-reviewed 

literature. The most comprehensive review of this topic by far to be published is that of 

Jensch et al. (2009). This paper provides an impressive overview of many aspects of 

crocodilians husbandry and management. Sections highlight important elements of enclosure 

design, safe techniques for capture and restraint, nutrition, thermal requirements, common 

diseases and health care, and behavioral enrichment. Importantly, this paper reviews

numerous existing laws regulating aspects of captive crocodilian husbandry and provides 

guidelines and recommendations for the proper care of these animals in captivity. In addition, 

the paper emphasizes taxonomic considerations for care of different species of crocodilians. 

SCOPE 

The recommendations made herein are limited in scope to captive crocodilians held in zoos 

and aquaria (both accredited and unaccredited). Other enterprises holding crocodilians, either 

commercial or private, including farms and ranches, traveling reptile shows, circuses, reptile 

dealers, and private holdings, are not considered in this discussion. 

Recommendations made are intended to be just that – recommendations and not be used as 

the basis of regulation and legislation by governing authorities. In all cases, national or state 

regulations may already be in existence and would naturally supersede any recommendations 

made herein. 

SPACE REQUIREMENT 

Space requirements for crocodilians in captivity have been the most discussed, and are by far 

the most contentious, aspects of creating standards for management of these animals. It is not 

an easy issue. The AZA’s Crocodile Advisory Group (CAG) the EAZA’s Herp TAGs, and 

the Australasian ZAA’s Reptile & Amphibian TAG have all been struggling with it for a 

number of years in trying to make recommendations and write husbandry manuals. The 

problem is essentially this - we have some reasonably good idea of what the minimum 

standards should be for animals of a given size or species but groups have been extremely 

reluctant to state those impressions objectively. The fear is that, as soon as one has done this, 

legislation will be enacted to set those as legal minima. In terms of captive crocodilians in 

zoos or private collections, animal on exhibit are typically kept in enclosures of sufficient 

size. The problem is with off-exhibit holding spaces. Few can afford to provide enough space 

for animals in holding. One concern is that, if space minima are legislated, people will not be 

able to keep as many specimens as previously and we all recognize that, without these crocs 

that have been kept in off-exhibit space at some point in the past, we would have very few 

crocs left in our programs. This is now being addressed as a matter of animal welfare. 

Recommendations need to be made with the good of the animals in mind. But there is a lot of 

disagreement and concern surrounding defining the minimum standards the animals need. 

There is increasing pressure to define objectively the minimum sizes of enclosures for single 

crocodilians, pairs, breeding and social groups, etc. Regulatory authorities are interested in 

imposing specific metrics, simplifying inspections and enforcement of regulations. 

Different countries, and indeed different states in the United States, have vastly different 

recommendations or regulations regarding space requirements. The recommendations in 

Florida are that an enclosure for a single animal must be of sufficient size to permit moving 

and turning both on a dry area and in a pool of water, and the water must be of sufficient 

depth to permit complete submersion. For additional specimens, the combined area covered 

by all their bodies shall not exceed 50 percent of enclosure area. 

North Carolina regulations for keeping captive alligators are that the enclosure must contain a 

pool of water large enough for the animal to completely submerge itself. If more than one 

animal is kept, the pool must be large enough for all animals to be able to submerge

themselves at the same time. A land area with both horizontal dimensions at least as long as 

the animal should also be provided. In case of more than one animal, the land area must have 

both horizontal dimensions at least as long as the longest animal to occupy the land area at 

the same time without overlap. 

In Germany, there are recent regulations that are being enforced for both private and zoo 

crocodilian facilities by governmental agencies. These regulations, and the recommendation 

for European EAZA zoos proposed by the EAZA Reptile TAG, were based on the paper by 

Jensch et al. (2009). These regulations state that for a pair of crocodiles, minimum land area 

must be 3 times the largest animal's snout-vent length (SVL)) wide and 4 times long. The 

minimum water area must be 4 times the largest animal's SVL wide and 5 times long and 

minimum depth must be 0.3 times SVL. So, a pair of animals with a SVL of 1 m (3.3 ft) - 

adult caiman size - would require a land area of 12 m 2 (39.3 square feet) and a water area of 

20 m 2 (65.6 square feet) to a depth of 30 cm (12 inches). Under these German rules, you must 

add 10% more land area and 20% more water area for each additional animal. However, this 

size of space for crocodilians will be very costly to provide in both the private and zoo 

environment. 

Rules and regulations in New South Wales, Australia, separate on-display and off-display 

exhibit sizes. The on-display size is 2.5 times TL of the croc by 2.5 x TL. The off-display size 

is 1.5 x TL by 1.5 x TL. So under those rules, for a 3 m croc, the enclosure size would be 4.5 

m x 4.5 m for off-display; 7.5m x 7.5m for on-display. (It’s possible these standards have 

since been revised.) Even small crocodiles have relatively large enclosures by these 

standards, and could easily thrive in smaller environs. If specific space requirements are to be 

dictated, the idea of having separate on-display and off-display/holding size regulations 

seems to be an important consideration. We mention these simply as examples of some 

standards that have attempted to put numbers to these enclosure size requirements. 

In some jurisdictions, for instance within the U.K., veterinary staff is responsible for 

determining whether an enclosure is 'appropriate' in all aspects: size, land/water ratios, etc. 

Queensland (Australia) chose a different tact that prescribing specific size standards to 

crocodilian exhibits. Their approach was to state the overriding goal, but let individual 

institutions meet that in a range of ways - provided of course that animal health, staff safety, 

etc., are met. They did not set specific size prescriptions. Queensland’s regulations simply 

state that the space required to hold crocodilians must meet the behavioral and physical needs 

of the crocodilian. Ultimately, the CAG limited its statement regarding space requirements to 

exactly this sensible approach taken by Queensland: The space required to hold crocodilians 

must meet the behavioral and physical needs of the crocodilian. 

RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING PRESCRIBED SPACE REQUIREMENTS 

If the CSG publishes "space and husbandry standards", they will become the arbitrary and 

capricious basis for regulation on the part of governmental agencies and animals rights 

organizations (which will then seek to expand them even further). The real challenge, 

separate and apart from space considerations in captivity, is that the requirements for each 

species are or may be different from one another. Some species thrive in tight quarters and 

even require same to feel secure and maintain low stress levels. Others may require larger 

enclosures. But it is impossible to define a single arithmetic calculation that will result in a 

"one size fits all" product that is in the best interest of all species of crocodilians. Even within

single species, the captive needs of an animal may differ from individual to individual. 

We recommend that the CSG avoid a highly prescriptive approach. It’s unworkable from an 

animal collection management perspective. Rather, the CSG role should be more of an 'expert 

opinion' if zoo authorities have any concerns about a facility. From a legal and ethical 

perspective, the captive requirements of crocodilians should be considered on a case-by-case 

basis. This can be accomplished through the use of expert consultants, where necessary, and 

would ensure that the best interests and welfare of the animals are of primary concern in 

every case. We encourage the CSG to ratify the Queensland policy (specifically, "the space 

required to hold crocodilians must meet the behavioral and physical needs of the 

crocodilians") and provide a detailed explanation as to why "minimum cage standards" is a 

concept that simply does not work in the best interests of captive crocodilians. 

HUSBANDRY STANDARDS 

The paper by Jensch et al. (2009) previously noted, is by far the most comprehensive and 

specific publication reviewing aspects of captive husbandry in crocodilians. In addition to 

many aspects of husbandry, the paper includes detailed discussions of environmental 

conditions, captive management, enclosure design, keeper and public safety, taxonomic 

differences and considerations, group sizes and social tolerance of various species of 

crocodilians. Although the space considerations reviewed in this paper make specific 

recommendations of minimal requirements for specimens of various sizes and species, which 

this present CSG working group cannot wholly support for the reasons stated above, all other 

aspects of this paper are appropriate, carefully reviews and considerations of captive 

husbandry requirements. It is the view of this committee that there is little need for us to 

review, rewrite or revamp these topics for our own purposes. We recommend that the CSG 

endorse and adopt the standards and rationale detailed in this paper as the standard for the 

specialist group. 

WELFARE 

Of course, the welfare of the animals in our care is paramount. Effective husbandry and 

management practices and proper enclosure design can ensure and promote the welfare of 

captive crocodilians. Adequate welfare involves more that eliminating pain, suffering and 

significant injury to captive crocodilians. It must involve adequate behavior and social 

enrichment for the animals as well. Increasingly, tools are being developed to assist with the 

assessment of behavioral welfare of captive specimens, including reptile species (Warwick et 

al. 2013). 

REFERENCES 

Bundesministerium für Ernährung, Landwirtschaft und Verbraucherschutz (BMELV). 1997. 

Gutachten der Sachverständigengruppe über die Mindestanforderungen an die Haltung 

von Reptilien. 

Jensch, Bernd, Markus Baur, Frank Brandstätter, Tobias Friz, Thomas Kolpin, Fabian 

Schmidt, Ralf Sommerlad, and Karl-Heinz Voigt. 2009. Mindestanforderungen an die 

artgerechte Haltung von Krokodilen in privaten Terrarien und zoologischen 

Einrichtungen. Zool. Garden NF 78: 102-131. 

Queensland Goverment, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Australia Parks and

Wildlife Service. 1995. Code of practice, Minimum standards of exhibiting wildlife in 

Queensland. 

Warwick, Clifford, Phillip Arena, Samantha Lindley, Mike Jessop, Catrina Steedman. 2013. 

Assessing reptile welfare using behavioural criteria. In Practice 35:3 123-131, 

doi:10.1136/inp.f1197. 

  

  

Prepared by: Kent A. Vliet 

Date prepared:  

  

27 April, 2013 



20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 



Student Research Assistance Scheme 


The SRAS is now in its fifth year and continues to receive encouraging applications. 

Year 

Applications 

Received 

Applications 

Approved 

Reports 

Received 

2009 20 20 20 

2010 13 13 9 

2011 9 9 4 

2012 11 11 1 

To April 2013 8 5 0 

TOTALS 61 58 34 

Details of all applications and available reports are included on the CSG website at: 

http://www.iucncsg.org/pages/Supported-Projects.html 

The program is a truly innovative and has tremendous potential for the future of crocodilian 

conservation. These students may well constitute the next generation of CSG members, sustaining 

our work of the past and building a solid and responsible future. 

Prepared by: 

Tom Dacey, CSG Executive Officer 



National Museum of the Philippines, Manila 

21 May 2012 (9.00 am-4.00 pm) 

Agenda Item SC.8. 

23rd CG Working Meeting 

Background: 

At each CSG Working Meeting the Chairman, following consultation with the Executive and Steering 

Committees, decides on the venue for the following Working Meeting. 

At the 21st Working Meeting in Manila it was agreed that the 23rd CSG Working Meeting would be held at 

the McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA, from 26-30 May 2014. 

The proponent, Mark Merchant, has been invited to make a short presentation to the Steering Committee. 

Prepared by: 





20 May 2013 (8.30 am-5.00 pm) 

Draft Agenda Item SC.7.2. 

Decision Item 

International Working Group on Reptile Skins 

Background: 

On 9 May 2013, Eduardo Escobedo, Director, The Responsible Ecosystems Sourcing Platform 

(RESP), wrote to the CSG Chairman: 

“I wanted to share the report of the International Working Group on Reptile Skins meeting that was 

held in London on 16 April (copy attached). 

As you will see from the report, the group took important decisions to begin working as a group with 

the view of consolidating 2-3 pilot projects by the end of this year to cover issues such as 

traceability, production systems, animal welfare, communication and awareness building and 

livelihoods. 

It was decided that at least one of the pilot projects to begin implementing in 2013 should be focused 

on a crocodilian with three strong possibilities: Morelet’s in Mexico and Caiman yacare in 

Bolivia and C. porosus in PNG. 

As I know all of you are involved in some or other way in all these countries, I look forward to 

follow up with you on ways to develop a collaboration between RESP and the CSG especially now 

that we have taken the needed decisions to begin developing the pilot projects. 

I look forward to receiving your feedback.” 

The CSG Chairman responded: 

“Thanks for the report. It does seem strange to me that the CSG of the IUCN-SSC has done more to 

implement traceability - successfully - with reptiles nationally and internationally through CITES, 

than any company or NGO, yet they have obviously been excluded from the deliberations and design 

of pilot studies etc. in the report that you have assembled. So a little unclear to us where this whole 

process is aimed. Anyway, I will ensure CSG members are aware of what your group are doing. 

Perhaps various CSG members are involved in their private capacities and others may see an 

opportunity to help.” 

Discussion: 

The CSG is unquestionably the most authoritative body to handle issues on crocodilian. The good 

work that the CSG has done in the past years has largely addressed the issue of sustainability, unlike 

other species of reptiles in trade that is attracting the unhealthy limelight currently. 

Suggested strategies for consideration are:

(1) The CSG should distance itself from other reptilian species (eg python, lizards) to avoid the 

good image painstakingly built up over many years being tarnished. 

(2) A CSG initiative in the form of a serious independent review strictly restricted to crocodilian 

would be the best and appropriate response. A CSG "bible" on best management practices for 

crocodilians will go a long way in helping the crocodilian industry, and the associated 

conservation programs, especially in the less developed countries. It would also help the 

channel the efforts of the fashion houses in the right direction. 

Recommendation: 

The CSG undertake an independent review on best management practices for the crocodilian 

industry (including farming), and incorporate the findings as part of the Crocodilian Capacity 

Building Manual initiative (as agreed at the Manaus and Manila Steering Committee meetings). 

Prepared by: 

CSG Executive Committee 


The Responsible Ecosystems Sourcing Platform 

1 st Meeting of the International Working Group on Reptile Skins 

MEETING REPORT 

This document constitutes the report of the 1 st Meeting of the RESP International Working 

Group on Reptile Skinsheld on 16April 2013, hosted by the Burberry in London, United 

Kingdom. 

Setting the context 

The International Working Group on-Reptile Skins (IWG-RS) of the Responsible 

Ecosystems Sourcing Platform (RESP) was created with the launch of the RESP 2013-2018 

Strategy in January 2013. 

Despite it being launched as part of RESP in 2013, the working group was originally 

established in February 2011 through the work of the Fashion and Cosmetics Biodiversity 

Platform (FCBP). During 2011 and 2012, the priority areas were established and initial 

preparatory work was undertaken. 

At the end of 2012, with the creation of RESP, the RESP Secretariat was tasked to continue 

preparing the work programme and follow the multilateral discussions in view of establishing 

a concrete work programme for the IWG-RS in early 2013. 

This meeting constitutes the first milestone in defining a concrete 2013-2015 work plan for 

the IWG-RS. 

Meeting objectives 

The overall objective of the meetings was: 

To determine a concrete work plan transitioning concepts to implementation including four 

initial pilot programs. 

Specific objectives included: 

 

 

 

Validate the proposal for integrated pilot projects including structure, issues and 

institutional/member involvement. 

Agree on moving forward with testing of proposed traceability technology and 

database construction. 

Agree-on pilot projects.

Decisions reached 

Five decisions were agreed by the IWG-RS, referring to deliverables for the next IWG-RS 

meeting to be held in late October or early November 2013. 

1. Chair of IWG-RS: Ms. Rebecca Loyo Mayo, Ethical Trade Manager at Burberry was 

nominated as Chair of the IWG-RS. 

2. Pilot projects: The RESP Secretariat-was mandated to establish the appropriate 

basis at the field level for the development of 2 to 3 integrated pilot projects and 

report to the working group by 17 June on the following elements: 

The feasibility of pilot projects against the criteria agreed by the IWG-RS, 

assessing the following countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Indonesia, Madagascar, 

Mexico and Papua New Guinea; 

The countries, communities and species; 

The government authorities, local partners, producers and communities 

proposed to participate in the pilot projects; 

The issues that each pilot project would be addressing and the proposed 

methodology to address each specific issue. 

The IWG-RS would consolidate the pilot project proposals by the next IWG-RS 

meeting, including: 

Established baselines; 

Engagement of tanneries, product manufactures, producer associations and 

others as suggested by the members of RESP; 

Established budgets and fundraising by the RESP Secretariat for the 

implementation of the pilot projects; 

Defined scope, timelines and engagement of RESP members; 

3. Mapping study: The RESP Secretariat in collaboration with partners and with support 

of its members-will produce a study for the next meeting of the IWG-RS: 

Mapping of existing initiatives working on the priority species of the IWG-RS; 

Mapping, aggregating and analysing existing research on production 

systems, animal welfare, social and environmental sustainability; 

Correlate data to determine commonalities and linkages with other industries; 

Mapping of the value chains and stakeholders; 

4. Communication, education, awareness building: The RESP Secretariat in 

consultations with its members was tasked to develop clear guidelines for internal / 

external communications and to continue the development of the designers’ toolkit 

project in line with the development of pilot projects as stated in point 2. 

5. Development of specific guidelines for the IWG-RS on how to determine, measure, 

monitor livelihood and conservation elements.This work should be carried out in 

coordination with relevant initiatives already advanced in developing guidelines on 

these issues, as well as in coordination with other IWGs of RESP.

A sub-working group was created to support the advancement of deliverable 2. The sub-WG 

is composed of HP Kildal, Ralph Arbeid, Hervé Loubert, Bob Moore, Eduardo Escobedo and 

Rebecca Loyo Mayo as Chair of the IWG-RS. 

Main discussion points 

The meeting was organised and moderated in a way to promote the prioritisation and 

organisation of issues by the participants. Below are some of the key issues developed 

throughout the meeting and which served as the basis for the decisions taken. 

Some of the main discussion points were not translated into immediate actions but are very 

important in guiding the future work of the IWG-RS. 

Session 1 

The RESP Secretariat provided a briefing on main issues discussed at CITES COP16 and 

the direct links to the RESP work programme and presented its proposal for the 

development of integrated pilot projects. 

Four breakout groups were formed to begin setting the context and work towards the 

validation of the proposed integrated project framework. The breakout groups were divided 

as follows: 1) Member participation and responsibilities in pilot projects, 2) Criteria for 

defining countries and species, and 3) Criteria for defining partnerships. 

Member participation and responsibilities: 

 

 

 

The active participation of members and collaboration between them is key for the 

success of the work and to maximise the benefits of the IWG-RS, including building 

the capacity of the IWG-RS as a whole. 

o Leverage member networks to involve other influential stakeholders; 

o Sharing existing knowledge and resources existing from work already 

developed within their specific value chains; 

o Providing co-financing for field level activities in a way to promote effective 

public-private partnerships in the implementation activities; 

o Top level management commitment is necessary. 

As a group, members should assimilate the learning, experiences and results 

stemming from IWG-RS projects and activities. 

o Carry out testing of results/tools/methodologies and share the results of this 

testing with the group; 

o Look at successful practices and methodologies to build awareness of issues 

and begin to identify and share best practices; 

o Look at opportunities of aligning sourcing policies. 

A thematic mapping of members’ participation in pilot projects should be developed.

Criteria for defining countries and species: 

 

 

 

Knowledge base, understanding and duplicability are important elements to consider 

with regards to defining pilot projects, specifically the following issues should be 

assessed: 

o The overall potential to succeed and to promote a holistic approach 

o The availability, reliability and accessibility of data 

o The level of capacity, awareness and willingness at the local level 

o The education potential across all levels of the supply chain 

o The feasibility to engage with international as well as local partners 

o The feasibility to establish measurement standards through collaboration 

The business case should be clear 

o Stable and continuous supply chains 

o Sustainability opportunities for the species 

o Importance of value for the brand and opportunities for positive brand image 

o Opportunities around positive lifecycles 

o Replicability and increasing choices of different value chains/species 

o Good commercial value and sustained market share 

o Importance of ecosystems with potential biodiversity issues 

Impacts should be clear and attainable: 

o Clear evidence of positive impact on biodiversity and livelihoods 

o Clear evidence of animal welfare observance 

o Clear understanding of reputational risks 

o Potential to impact trade measures 

o Improve current systems 

o Potential for developing of an interesting story 

Criteria for defining partnerships: 

Expertise not existing in the group and which would be important to ensure: 

 

 

Science 

o Scientific expertise is needed at two different levels: 1) environmental 

sciences at both the species and ecosystems level, and 2) animal welfare 

science mostly found in the veterinary sciences and in diverse foundations; 

o Scientific expertise should be sourced from reliable and trusted sources and 

outputs of the IWG-RS should be peer reviewed by authoritative sources; 

o Scientific expertise should encompass the possible effects of national 

consumption and also provide sources for non-CITES listed species; 

o Partners should provide an authoritative basis that would ensure the use of 

best-practices, recommendations and possible voluntary standards of the 

IWG-RS have an international acceptance and backing. 

Livelihoods / sustainable development at the local level: 

o Partnerships should be established to develop methodology on how to 

assess and measure livelihood impacts; 

o Local partners need to be able to incorporate a holistic approach in their work 

o Involvement of national and local authorities key;

o Local partners should have an established reputation; have a leadership role 

and convening power. 

Communications: 

o Partnerships with research institutes/universities, international NGOs, 

government and intergovernmental organisation should be sought; 

o Peer review of outputs before being communicated. 

Session 2 

The second session focused on further understanding and demonstrating the proposed 

traceability system being developed in partnership with VCC and CFI. 

VCC and CFI presented some of the main elements and advancements of a traceability 

system being developed based on RFID technology.Two main aspects of the system were 

presented: 1) the proof of concept, 2) the global database. 

Proof of concept: 

The overall objective of a traceability system should be to ensure stable and 

continuous supply chains, however through pilot projects specific objectives for each 

of the stakeholders should be identified and properly addressed through the system; 

Three possible phases of development foreseen. RFID technology could potentially 

work on two phases: phase 1 from skinneries/farms to manufacturers (covering the 

existing CITES permitting system), and phase 2_from manufacturers to the end 

product, which would be undertaken once there has been considerable advancement 

with phase 1. A solution for traceability from the wild to the skinneries/farms would 

still need to be developed; 

More than 30 different RFID chips tested over the preparatory stage, one has met all 

the survival criteria at the tannery level. It is proposed that this chip type is used for 

the testing at the country level. 

Global database: 

One of the most important benefits of an international adopted traceability system 

could be to have one global database where all relevant information could be stored 

and accessed through different security criteria; 

The global database can be developed and tested through pilot projects with 

minimum disturbances for stakeholders; 

Countries would be able to receive local copies of their data and integrate it into their 

existing databases so there would not be any need to change database systems 

already existing at the global level.

Session 3 

Session three was carried out by group work focusing on four main issues related to pilot 

projects: 1) Traceability, 2) Environmental and social sustainability, 3) Animal Welfare, and 

4) Education and awareness building 

The results of the groups are included in the first part of the reports and correspond to the 

decisions reached. However, below are some other important issues put forward by the 

groups to better guide the pilot project implementations: 

Traceability: 

The development of the system lead by industry in close collaboration with other 

stakeholders including CITES authorities and local institutions, among others; 

Traceability without stable and continuous supply chains is meaningless. Pilot 

projects should address all relevant issues pertaining to sustainability for traceability 

to make sense; 

Stakeholders participating in pilot projects should already meet some minimum 

requirements (to be determined in the assessment phase until 17 June). This would 

enable a better starting basis that can be enhanced through targeted capacity 

building to prepare them for the development process; 

Ideally the model being developed should be replicable; 

It will be important to secure funding for this development phase, at the same time 

begin working on establishing a dedicated funding strategy to maintain the system 

once its developed and adopted; 

Two to three countries should be selected for pilot projects, including a variety of 

reptile species (e.g. snakes and crocodilians and/or lizards) 

Environmental and social sustainability: 

The end result of the work of the IWG-RS should be to ensure net positive impacts 

on both environmental and social development; 

Work around sustainability should be carried out through strategic partnerships at the 

local and international level and priority given to places where baselines have 

already been established; 

Contribution to the development of tools/methodologies/standards 

Understanding impact of different production systems in natural and managed 

ecosystems and further contributing to better identifying wild vs. captive bred skins; 

Determining the contribution of different production systems to socio-economic 

development at the local level; 

Base work on already existing research / initiatives to avoid duplication and, where 

possible promote collaboration. Monitor wild populations through field observations 

(e.g. age/sex demographics, number of eggs, size of skins, hunting efforts). 

Animal welfare: 

Animal welfare is part of the sustainability of the overall system and thus there is a 

need for a change of attitude and ethos around the respect for the animal.

An initial incursion in to animal welfare could begin with the slaughtering practices. 

Even if animal welfare relates to a lot of other processes, slaughter could provide an 

initial basis for future work; 

A five phase approach to addressing the issue is proposed: 

I. Compile, collate and analyse existing information on practices and research 

and look at slaughtering standards;Develop standards that people can adapt; 

II. Develop a training model that can be undertaken at the slaughterhouse level 

and applied with the support of brands and tanneries; 

III. Enhance training tools with best-practices being developed at the global level 

and highlight these through training; 

IV. Feedback into the supply chain to begin promoting behaviour change; 

V. Identify local and expert pioneers and influential actors to begin implementing 

the standards; 

It is important to understand the necessary language that accompanies the 

slaughtering recommendations around training, handling and skill. 

Education and awareness building: 

Work should be carried out at two levels: internal and external. It should support the 

work of members in portraying a more positive story. Target audiences: (internal – 

CEOs, purchasing, design/marketing, communications; external – policy-makers); 

Communication needs to be based on demonstrable facts and then be translated to 

meet the needs and characteristics of target audiences; 

Design / marketing guided by relevant info such as quality aspects, uses & 

applications, size and types of skins, potential products, availability, etc.; 

partnerships with fashion institutes key; 

Work with designers should be around creating a journey of discovery, linked with 

the brand. This could be done through study tours as mid-term goals for the pilot 

projects; 

Non-technical policy briefs series could be produced for parliamentarians.

ANNEX I 

MEETING AGENDA 

09h00 

Welcoming remarks - Burberry 

Update on RESP IWG-RS / briefing of CITES COP16 - 

Eduardo Escobedo, Director, RESP 

09h45 

Session objective: Validate the proposal for integrated pilot projects including 

structure, issues and institutional/member involvement 

Presentation of proposals for integrated pilot projects 

Eduardo Escobedo, Director, RESP 

“World Café” Break out group discussions on defining criteria to select: 

countries, species, international partners, communities and participating 

members 

11h15 

Session objective: Agree on moving forward with testing of proposed 

traceability technology and database construction 

Update and initial demonstration of proposed technology for the development 

of traceability system for reptiles – 

Ian, Gregory, Storage and Security Expert, VCC 

Moderated Q&A’s on proposed technology and database 

12h30 

14h00 

Lunch Break 

Break out group discussions on the integration of priority issues in pilot projects 

Breakout groups on: environmental and social sustainability, traceability, 

animal welfare, education and awareness building 

15h30 

16h00 

Coffee Break 

Session objective: Agreeing on a minimum of four pilot projects 

Presentation of group discussion results and establishment of IWG-RS work 

plan and next steps 

17h45 

End of meeting

ANNEX II 

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 

Agropecuaria Setten Carolina Setten Director 

Alexander McQueen Sarah Dixon CSR Coordinator 

Burberry Pamela Batty Corporate Responsibility Director 

Burberry Hailie Nguyen Corporate Responsibility Assistant 

Burberry Rebecca Loyo Mayo Ethical Trading Manager 

Cartier Nawal Ait-Hocine Director Corporate Responsibility 

CFI Claude Walthert Chief Executive Officer 

Cocodrilos Maya Marco Novelo Director 

CSCP Cheryl Hicks 

Team Leader, Sustainable 

Lifestyles 

European Environmental 

Head of Group - Executive 

Petra Fagerholm 

Agency 

Director's office 

Giorgio Armani Luca Galvani CSR Manager 

HCP Herve Loubert Deputy Managing Director 

Humane Society 

International 

Mark Jones Executive Director 

Humane Society of the 

United States 

PJ Smith Corporate Outreach Manager 

International Trade Centre Alexander Kasterine 

Head, Trade and Environment 

Programme 

Kering Helen Crowley 

Conservation & Ecosystem 

Services Specialist 

Labelux Matteo Ghedini Head of Sustainability 

London College of Fashion Dilys Williams 

Director of Centre for Sustainable 

Fashion 

LVMH Alexandre Capelli Environment Coordinator 

LVMH Cecile Joucan Sustainable Resources Manager 

Man & Nature Olivier Behra Director 

Mulberry Dorothy Lovell 

Corporate Responsibility 

Coordinator 

Nina Skarra Nina Skarra Director / Head Designer 

Nina Skarra Hans Peter Kildal Sustainability Manager 

Novalpina Adrien Forray Manager France 

Ralph Arbeid Ralph Arbeid Leather Sector Expert 

RESP Eduardo Escobedo Director 

Swatch Group Bob Moore Group Compliance Officer 

Vertu Paul Woodward Trade Compliance Manager 

VCC Ian Gregory Storage and Security Expert 

Wildlife Conservation 

Society 

Matthew Hatchwell Chief Executive Europe

  

Philippine crocodile conservation in northeast Luzon,  

Philippines  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Village Councillor Richard Salvador releasing a  

headstarted juvenile Philippine crocodile in Diwagden  

Creek, a tributary of Disulap River in September 2012  

Progress Report Mabuwaya Foundation  

Reporting Period: 1 April 2012 – 31 March 2013   

1  

 

Philippine crocodile conservation in NE Luzon, Philippines.   

Reporting period: 1 April 2012 – 31 March 2013  

Progress Report Mabuwaya Foundation Philippine crocodile conservation in Ne Luzon, Philippines  

I CROCODILES  

Philippine crocodile status in Isabela Province  

A) Monitoring surveys  

Mabuwaya implements quarterly crocodile surveys in areas with permanent Philippine crocodile presence  

in Isabela Province. A standard methodology is used of 3 consecutive night surveys per site + day light  

crocodile  and  track  searches  +  interviews  with  local  residents  and  the  local  protection  group  members  

(Bantay Sanktuwaryo).  

Table 1: Maximum Philippine crocodile numbers sighted during the period April 2012‐March 2013  

Nonhatchling  

Crocodile localities  

Adult  Juvenile  Hatchling  Total  

Locality  Barangay 1            

Dinang Creek  Cadsalan  4  4  38  46  8  

Dicamay River  Tappa  1      1  1  

Dungsog Lake 2 2  Dibuluan            

Dunoy Lake 1  Dibuluan  2  11  12  25  13  

Dunoy Lake 2  Dibuluan    12    12  12  

Dadugen lake  Dibuluan    2  3  5  2  

Gapgap Lake 2  Dibuluan            

Pagsungayan Lake  Dibuluan    1    1  1  

Palaplakan Lake 3  Dibuluan    1    1  1  

Narra Lake  Disulap  1  8    9  9  

Narra Fishpond 2  Disulap            

Disulap River  Disulap  2  5    7  7  

Dicatian Lake  Dicatian 1    1    1  1  

Dilakit Creek  Dilakit 1    1    1  1  

Total Count  10  46  53  109  56  

1  All localities in the municipality of San Mariano except Dicatian and Dilakit in the municipality of Divilacan.  2   

Surveyed but no crocodiles observed. Head‐started crocodiles have been released in these lakes in earlier years.  3  

Palaplakan Lake was not monitored in 2012 during the quarterly monitoring but it was monitored in March 2013.   

  

2 

  

B) Crocodile nests  

Table 2: Philippine crocodile nests in Isabela Province in 2012  

Locality  Nest  

code  

No of  

eggs  

No of  

hatchlings 1  

No of  

hatchlings  

collected  

Dunoy  

Lake 1  

Dadugen  

Lake  

Dinang  

Creek  

Dunoy  

2012 nest  

1  

Dadugen  

2012  

Dinang  

2012 nest  

1  

  Dinang  

2012 nest  

2  

  Dinang  

2012 nest  

3  

unknown  12  8 (1 died, 7 in  

rearing  

station)  

No of  Remarks   

hatchlings  

left in wild  

4  Nest not found. Total  

no of eggs and  

hatchlings unknown  

Unknown  3  2  1  “Small” crocodiles  

reported by local  

residents.  Presence of  

hatchlings was  

confirmed by  

Mabuwaya in  

September 2012  

12  10 (+ 1  

neonate  

mortality)  

1 + 3 (4, see  

note)  

6  1 egg infertile, 1  

neonate died few  

minutes after hatching.  

Unknown  At least 14  11  At least 3  Number of eggs could  

not be determined  

after hatching  

Unknown  At least 14  1 (+1  

possibly from  

this nest, see  

note)  

At least 12  

Number of eggs could  

not be determined  

after hatching  

Total      53  26 (+ 1 dead)  26    

Note: Total number of hatchling collected in Dinang creek in 2012 is 17 (3 hatchling were collected later  

near Nest 1 and one hatchling was retrieved in Ilaguen River within Barangay Buyasan by Hermy Labuguen  

(BS Member in Cadsalan).   

  

  

3 

C) Head start program  

26 newly born Philippine crocodiles were collected in 2012 and are being raised in the rearing station in  

San Mariano to be released in 2014.   

Table 3: Philippine crocodile releases in 2012  

Locality  Release date  No of crocs released  Origin of  Releasers 1  

crocodiles  

Dunoy Lake 2  19 May 2012  12    Donors  

Mabuwaya  

(Lacoste/FDB,  

Zoos) + Prov  

Gov, DoT,  

DENR, BS  

Diwagden Creek  24 September 2012  5 (2010 batch)    Brgy Officials  

San Jose and  

residents  

Diwakden  

Total    17      

1  FDB = Fonds de Dotation pour la Biodiversite, Prov Gov = Provincial Government, DoT = Department of  

Tourism, DENR = Department of Environment and Natural Resources, BS = Bantay Sanktuwaryo, Brgy =  

Barangay   

  

4 

D) Crocodiles killed/died  

Table 4: Philippine crocodiles killed or died in Isabela Province in period April 2012‐ March 2013  

Locality  Date  Age  

Circumstances  

group/code  

Dinang Creek  29  

September  

2012  

Adult /  

without scutecuts  

Shot within the premises of a house 70 meters from  

Dinang creek by Noli Bagaouisan. Noli and Marjorie lost  

3 piglets earlier and the croc attacked again his 30 kg pig  

that was tied beside the pump well. The pig that was  

attacked was not put in the pig pen at night.   

NARRA/Road  

to San Isidro  

NARRA  

  

1 October  

2012 found  

12 March  

2013 found  

Juvenile/with  

scute cuts  

Juvenile/no  

tail  

Found along the road from NARRA to San Isidro with  

stab wounds to the head. The decomposing crocodile  

could still be identified. It is unknown who killed the  

crocodile.   

The head of a small crocodile was found dead, and  

decomposing, along the creek in the NARRA project  

area. It is suspected that the crocodile died in a snare  

trap and that the body was eaten by other animals. It is  

unknown who put the snare trap that was likely meant  

to trap other animals such as monitor lizards.  

Response: Killing a Philippine crocodile is prohibited by national law (wildlife act), Municipal ordinances  

(San Mariano) and in some cases Barangay (village) ordinances. Unfortunately these laws are not being  

enforced.  Mabuwaya is using a response mechanism in which first the Barangay Council is informed of a  

crocodile killing and requested for a response. If the Barangay does not take action, the case is brought to  

the  Municipal  Office.  If  there  is  no  action  on  Municipal  level,  the  case  is  reported  to  the  Regional  

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).   

In the case of the crocodile killing in Dinang Creek, the team from Mabuwaya went to the site for a joint  

investigation together with the barangay law enforcement team. The suspect admitted the killing of the  

crocodile but since the barangay captain was not around, another schedule was made for a session with  

the barangay council. During that session, the barangay council found Mr. Bagaouisan guilty of killing the  

crocodile and ordered him to pay the penalty stipulated in their barangay ordinance.  The case was settled  

within  the  barangay  and  Mr.  Bagaouisan  paid  the  fine  of  five  hundred  pesos  (PhP  500.00)  and  made  a  

promissory note not to kill crocodiles anymore. The case was no longer brought to a higher court because  

the issue was already settled within the barangay.   

In the case of the crocodile killings in the NARRA project area no action was taken as the perpetuators are  

unknown. Mabuwaya is planning new awareness‐raising and information campaigns in this area to inform  

inhabitants  of  the  protected  status  of  the  Philippine  crocodile  and  the  existing  laws  and  penalties  

regarding killing or harming crocodiles. Furthermore, workshops are planned with the barangay officials  

and Bantay Sanktuwaryo members to strengthen law enforcement.  

  

5 

II Conservation activities  

A) Crocodile sanctuaries  

Figure 1: Map of crocodile and fish sanctuaries in San Mariano  

  

San  Mariano  currently  has  13  fish  sanctuaries  declared  by  barangay  ordinances.  Rules  and  regulations  

differ per sanctuary from closed seasons to banned fishing methods.   

San Mariano has 3 officially declared Philippine crocodile sanctuaries: Disulap River (municipal ordinance),  

Dinang Creek (brgy ordinance Cadsalan) and part of Dicamay River (brgy ordinance Tappa).  Dunoy Lake 1  

and 2 is a crocodile sanctuary (unofficially) managed by the Mabuwaya Foundation inside the crocodile  

habitat  management  zone  of  the  Northern  Sierra  Madre  Natural  Park.  The  DENR‐Protected  Area  

Superintendent Unit officially is responsible for this area but lacks resources to implement protection or  

management  activities  here.  The  Narra  area  is  a  reforestation  project  managed  by  the  People’s  

Organisation of San Isidro and Dunoy with assistance by Mabuwaya with an unofficial crocodile sanctuary  

(Narra Lake) managed by Mabuwaya. Bantay Sanktuwaryo (BS) members are engaged in environmental  

protection activities in the Dunoy Lakes, Narra Lake, Disulap River and Dinang Creek areas. All these areas  

are subject to quarterly monitoring of the crocodile population by Mabuwaya staff and BS members.   

Maconacon has 2 officially (municipal ordinances) declared crocodile sanctuaries: the Blos River estuary  

(Saltwater  crocodile  sanctuary)  and  Po  River  (Philippine  crocodile  sanctuary).  These  two  areas  are  

  

  

6 

occasionally visited by Mabuwaya staff. Bantay Kalikasan Brigade (BKB) members are officially tasked to  

protect these sanctuaries but their current status is unclear.   

Divilacan has 1 officially declared crocodile sanctuary (brgy and municipal ordinance): the Dicatian Lake  

Philippine  crocodile  sanctuary.  BKB  members  and  Municipal  Environment  and  Natural  Resources  Office  

(MENRO) staff are actively engaged in protection of the lake. Mabuwaya staff regularly visit the sanctuary  

for crocodile conservation monitoring.    

Palanan  has  1  officially  declared  crocodile  sanctuary  (brgy  ordinance):  Dibukarot  Creek  Philippine  

crocodile sanctuary. The creek was severely impacted by recent typhoons and is believed to currently no  

longer  hold  a  permanent  Philippine  crocodile  population.  Mabuwaya  staff  rarely  visit  this  area  due  to  

financial and time constraints.   

B) Bantay Sanktuwaryo   

The  Bantay  Sanktuwaryo  (BS)  is  a  local  protection  group  consisting  of  farmers  and  fishermen  who  live  

adjacent to crocodile areas in San Mariano. The BS members have received para‐legal environmental law  

enforcement training and are officially deputised by the Municipality of San Mariano to patrol and enforce  

environmental laws.   

Table 5: Bantay Sanktuwaryo members  

Locality  

BS Member  

Dunoy / Dunoy Lake + Catalangan River  

Mr Victorino Montanes  

San Isidro/ Disulap River   

Mr Samuel Francisco  

Singap/Disulap River  

Mr Nicanor Layugan  

Diwagden  

Mr Nestor Gumarang  

Diwagden  

Mr Joel Bulusan  

San Jose / croc holding pen  

Mr Fernando Domingo  

San Jose / Diwagden   

Mr Mario Sotto Jr.  

Lumalug / Dinang Creek  

Mr Alvin Labuguen  


Mr Hermy Labuguen  


Mr Marlon Robles  

  

BS Capacitation:  

August 5, 2012: Meeting with BS members on reporting procedures  

December 16, 2012: Meeting with BS members regarding the result of annual monitoring, planning for  

2013.  

March 30, 2013: Meeting with BS members regarding the searching of crocodile nest and monitoring of  

reforestation project in Dunoy and the buffer zones of Dinang Creek Philippine crocodile sanctuary.  

Support  to  BS  members:  field  equipment  (T‐shirts  and  sleeping  bags),  annual  accident  insurance,  

batteries, quarterly incentive (500 Pesos/month), involvement in field activities (200 Pesos/day + food).  

  

7 

C) Philippine crocodile reward  

An annual reward is given to barangays who protect crocodiles. The reward is 1,000 Pesos/counted nonhatchling crocodile + 500 Pesos per new born (hatchling) crocodile. The barangay may decide on how to  

use the reward for development activities themselves.   

Table 6: Crocodile rewards 2012  

Municipality  Barangay  Non‐hatchling  Total  Hatchling  Total  Grand total  

San Mariano  Dibuluan  31  31,000  15  7,500  38,500  

  Disulap  7  7,000      7,000  

  Cadsalan  8  8,000  38  19,000  27,000  

  San Jose  7  7,000      7,000  

  Tappa  1  1,000      1,000  

Divilacan  Dicatian  1  1,000      1,000  

  Dilakit  1  1,000      1,000  

Total    56  56,000  53  26,500  82,500  

  

Use of Reward:  

Brgy  Dibuluan:  Twenty  thousand  pesos  (PhP  20,000)  was  spent  for  the  improvement  of  the  road  from  

Sitio Villa Miranda to Sitio Dunoy and Sitio Dadugen. The use of rest of the reward will still be discussed by  

the barangay council of Dibuluan.   

Brgy  Disulap:  The  use  of  the  crocodile  conservation  reward  is  still  subject  for  discussion  among  the  

barangay council members of Disulap.  

Brgy San Jose: They will use the reward for the construction of fish ponds for interested individuals and  

families in Sitio Diwagden and Barangay San Jose.   

Brgy Cadsalan: They will use their conservation reward for the construction of a perimeter fence at their  

guest house and they purchased 25 pieces of mono‐block chairs for Sitio Lumalug for the occasional use.  

D) CROCS (Crocodiles in the River and Our Children in School) Sponsor Program   

26 school children of Cadsalan Integrated School visited the rearing station in San Mariano town on July  

2012 and were shown how to feed, weigh and measure crocodiles. They learned about crocodile ecology  

and wetland conservation. One pump well was constructed at the school and all 426 pupils of the school  

(elementary and high school) received school supplies (notebook, paper, ball pen, pencil, crayons)   

E) Crocodile sanctuary buffer zone restoration and smart solutions to livestock predation  

Materials  (nails,  interlinks,  hogwire)  to  construct  70  pig  pens  were  provided  to  local  residents  along  

Dinang Creek.   

Individual farm planning to reforest the buffer zone of Dinang Creek was completed with 22 farmers.  

  

8 

1  tree  seedling  nursery  (4  x  8  meters)  was  established  along  Dinang  Creek  to  be  able  to  guarantee  a  

continuous  supply  of  seedlings  for  reforestation  of  the  Dinang  Creek  area.  Seedlings  to  populate  the  

nursery will be collected from the wild (native species) by school children and local residents.  

Twelve students (3 colleges, 6 high schools and 3 elementary) participated in the reforestation and they  

were given certificates and cash incentives.  

At  least  half  kilometres  on  both  sides  of  the  buffer  zones  were  constructed  with  bamboo  fence  to  

safeguard the planted seedlings and farm animals to increase the survival and enhance the buffer zones.   

F) Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park buffer zone reforestation and agroforestry establishment  

3  tree  seedling  nurseries  established  in  San  Isidro,  Narra  and  Malaya  (all  in  the  San  Isidro/Narra  area).  

Twenty thousand wildings were collected from the wild by community members to populate nurseries.   

10 ha of grassland reforested with 9412 native rainforest trees and 1368 assorted fruit trees (Guyabano,  

Mango, Coconut) in the Dunoy area, San Mariano.     

1  tree  seedling  nursery  establish  in  Maguli,  Municipality  of  Tumauni  and  10  ha  of  grassland  reforested  

with 9251 native rainforest trees and 734 fruit trees  

1 tree seedling nursery establish in Vibanara, Municipality of Ilagan and 10 ha of grassland reforested with  

5940 native rainforest trees and 1230 assorted fruit tree seedlings.  

32.5 km of bamboo bio‐fence planted along the 1 km buffer zone boundary of the Northern Sierra Madre  

Natural Park in the municipalities of Tumauini, Ilagan and San Mariano to visibly demarcate the boundary  

of the park.   

G) Other activities  

Mini‐summit on Philippine crocodile conservation in Isabela.   

On 19 May 2012, a mini‐summit was held at the Isabela Provincial Capitol in Ilagan to present and discuss  

the  future  of  Philippine  crocodile  conservation  in  Isabela.  Participants  included  the  Provincial  

Government, the DENR, the DoT, ISU, the municipal governments of Maconacon and Divilacan and donors  

of Philippine crocodile conservation activities in Isabela such as Zoos (Zoos Victoria, Gladys Porter Zoo, St  

Augustine Alligator farm, Danish Crocodile Zoo) and Lacoste/Fond de Dotation pour la Biodiversite).   

Mainstreaming Climate Change in Biodiversity Planning and Conservation  

8 workshops were conducted with 8 municipalities in the NSMNP to design municipal CC mitigation and  

adaptation action plans. These plans contain planned activities (such as mangrove reforestation, establish  

agroforestry and improve waste management) in seven key result areas: food security, human security,  

ecosystem and environmental stability, knowledge and capacity building, climate smart industries, green  

energy,  water  sufficiency.  The  plans  span  a  period  of  10  years  (2012‐2022)  and  include  a  budget  and  

partners  and  implementing  institutions.  Two  workshops  were  held  to  integrate  municipal  plans  into  

provincial, regional and national CC related programs. The plans will also be integrated into the NSMNP  

management plan. The municipal CC action plans will be implemented using municipal financial resources  

and government programs.    

  

9 

A 5‐day cross visit (September 2012, 22 participants) was organised for the Protected Area Management  

Board (PAMB) members of the NSMNP and municipal and provincial government representatives to Mt  

Kitanglad on Mindanao. The participants learned about PA management in Mt Kitanglad where the PAMB  

is very active in securing payments from environmental services from water users downstream. Several  

agroforestry  and  reforestation  projects  were  visited  to  learn  more  about  sustainable  land  use  and  

agriculture.   

An  interview  study  was  conducted  among  510  respondents  by  students  and  staff  of  the  Isabela  State  

University  Department  of  Development  Communication  (DEVCOM)  to  determine  knowledge  and  

awareness  levels  of  residents  of  the  buffer  zone  of  the  NSMNP  regarding  the  causes  and  impacts  of  

Climate Change. The study results were used to design 6,000 posters (4,000 English and 2,000 Filipino),  

7,000 fans (4,000 English and 3,000 Filipino) and 8,000 leaflets (4,000 English and 4,000 Filipino) on CC  

that  were  distributed  among  residents  and  offices  in  Isabela  Province.  A  puppet  show  on  CC  was  

developed and so far performed 4 times in Cabagan, San Pablo and San Mariano and Baggao (Cagayan).   

Bird surveys were conducted in 4 localities in the NSMNP to complement a database of bird observations  

in all habitat types of the park and buffer zone collected during the period 1999‐2012. These observations  

are used to model the possible impact of CC on the distribution of birds in the NSMNP using the Maximum  

Entropy (MaxEnt) model by a team of researchers form Leiden University, the Netherlands.  

Student Research  

Several foreign students conducted studies within the framework of Mabuwaya in 2012:  

  

• Tanja Voogd (Biology): growth of Philippine crocodile hatchlings in the rearing station under  

various rearing strategies  

• Jasper Buickx (Biology): survival of head‐started Philippine crocodiles after release: construction of  

a population growth model  

• Jordy Groffen (Animal Science): immune system of Philippine crocodiles in the rearing station   

• Trevin Byrd (Biology): filming Philippine crocodile behaviour in the wild  

• George Westwell (Biology): Philippine crocodiles along the coast of Isabela  

• Joost Besijn (Biology): Varanus Bitatawa population, distribution, status and ecology    

• Koen van Lieshout (Wildlife Management): Survival of released head‐started Philippine crocodiles  

Students have submitted final reports or report writing is ongoing.   

Presentations at workshops and conferences  

Mabuwaya presented updates of the crocodile conservation activities at:  

  

• NSMNP Protected Area Management Board meetings   

• Wildlife Conservation Society of the Philippines symposium: April 2012, De la Salle University,  

Dasmarinas, Philippines  

• IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group Meeting: May 2012, National Museum of the Philippines, Manila,  

Philippines   

• International Zoo Educators (IZE) Symposium: August 2012, Chester, UK.   

• Presentations at Leiden University, Wageningen University, Hogeschool Leeuwarden, Nijmegen  

University, Amsterdam University and IUCN Netherlands in the Netherlands  

10 

11  

  

III Mabuwaya per 1 April 2013  

Table 7: Employed staff  

Name  

Position  

Marites G. Balbas  

Field Project Manager/OIC Director  

Vacancy  

Finance/Admin Officer  

Dominic G. Rodriguez  

Conservation and Protection Manager  

Ronald Addatu  

Agroforestry/Reforestation Specialist  

Arnold T. Macadangdang  

Driver/Research Assistant   

Edmund D. Jose  

Research Assistant  

Camilo Paguirigan   

Rearing Station Manager  

Amante Yog‐yog  

Field Assistant/Information Officer  

Dorina R. Soler  

Communication, Education and Public Awareness  

(CEPA) and Office Assistant  

  

Table 8: Board members, Project Advisers and Project Director (volunteer positions)  

Name  

Position  

Artemio T. Antolin  

President Board  

Myrna C. Cureg  

Vice‐President Board  

Samuel  P.Telan  

Secretary Board  

Romeo R. Quilang  

Board Member  

Jerome Q. Miranda  


Maria Gracia Cielo  M. Padaca  


Chris Banks  


Robert R. Araño  

Project Adviser  

Jan van der Ploeg  

Project Adviser  

Merlijn van Weerd  

Executive Director  

  

Table 9: Ongoing Projects and Grants 2012/2013  

Project title  Donor  Time Frame  Total Budget  

Philippine crocodiles,  

people and livestock  

living together  

Peoples Trust for  

Endangered Species  

(PTES)  

June 2012‐June 2014  

21,000 Pounds  

Reforestation buffer  

zone Dinang Creek and  

solving livestock  

conflicts  

Taronga Field  

Conservation Grant  

January‐Dec 2012  

9978 AUD  

4Cs: Cash for  

communities conserving  

crocodiles  

Lacoste/ Save your Logo  

/ Fond de Dotation pour  

la biodiversite  

July 2011‐June 2016  

24, 000 euros/year x 5  

years = 120,000 Euro  

Plant Towards  

Rainforestation and Ecoenterprise in Sierra  

Madre (Plan TREES)  

Philippine Tropical  

Forest Conservation  

Foundation,  Year 2  

July 2012‐April 2013  

1,626,130 Pesos 

Restoration of Degraded  

Landscape in the  

Bufferzone of the  

NSMNP  

Mainstreaming Climate  

Change in Biodiversity  

Planning and   

Conservation in the  

Philippines  

Philippine crocodile  

head‐start program and  

general costs Philippine  

crocodile conservation  

 Crocodiles in the River  

and Our Children in the  

School  

  

GEF‐SGP ‐UNDP  

  

June 2012‐Nov 2013  

2,034,398 Pesos  

USAID  January 2011‐April 2013  98,240 USD  

Zoos Victoria,   

European Zoos (London  

Zoo, Chester Zoo, Koln  

Zoo, Zurich Zoo, Bergen  

Aquarium)  

US Zoos (Galdys Porter  

Zoo, Ohama Doorly Zoo,  

St Augustine Alligator  

Farm, various others..)  

Annual  

10,000 AUD (Zoos  

Victoria)  

7,500 Euro (European  

Zoos)  

Varying (US Zoos)  

  

Individual Donors    1,000 Euro/donor  

2 donors in 2012  

Table 10: Grant applications submitted   

Project title  Donor  Time Frame  Total Budget  

requested  

Philippine crocodile  

conservation in Disulap  

River  

  

Seaworld and Busch  

Gardens Conservation  

Fund  

1 June 2013 – 31 May  

2015  

25,000 USD  

Mabuhay buwaya!  

Mobilizing community  

support for Philippine  

crocodile conservation  

through entertainment  

and education  

  

Disney Worldwide  

Conservation Fund   

1 October 2013 – 30  

September 2014  

25,000 USD  

12

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