The owner of a crocodile farm in Lamphun has decided to slaughter breeding crocodiles that have been together for 17 years, due to the severe weather this year and the risk of flooding that could lead them to escape and harm the local community.
On September 24, 2024, the farm’s Facebook page posted that they made a rapid decision to remove the breeding crocodiles from their pond. The owner, known as “X,” consulted with his family and received unanimous agreement on the decision, which he described as a difficult but necessary choice to prioritize safety.
Next year, the farm will cease breeding activities entirely, citing that the heavy rainfall and saturated soil have made it difficult to operate safely. The owner remains hopeful for better days ahead despite the challenges.
Mr. Natphak Khamkard, the 37-year-old owner of the farm, revealed that the farm is situated in Sankhayom village and has been in operation for 17 years since acquiring crocodiles to help dispose of waste meat. The original stock of 125 has since multiplied to over 500 crocodiles.
With recent heavy rains leading to flooding, there were concerns that large crocodiles might break free from their enclosures and endanger local residents. Consequently, the decision was made to eliminate 90 of the older breeding crocodiles, leaving around 500 younger ones on the farm for the time being. The farm will reassess its capabilities to breed after the rainy season passes.
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This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.