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Omaha Steve

(99,069 posts)
Wed Jun 25, 2014, 09:46 PM Jun 2014

Nile Crocodile Signals Rescuer, “I’m Still Alive!”


http://www.care2.com/causes/nile-crocodile-signals-rescuer-im-still-alive.html




by Laura Simpson June 24, 20147:00 pm

Editor’s note: This post is a Care2 favorite. It was originally published on January 4, 2012. Enjoy!

When a young Nile crocodile is stolen from the safety of its river home, it’s as defenseless as a kitten. Sold to a pet store or traded to a private collector, an immature crocodile becomes a pathetic creature deprived of fresh air, of moonlight, of catching fish and of lying in the mid-day sun.

Humans have a misconception about the psyche of crocs and imbue them with villainous qualities because of their design as powerful predators. But the truth is that crocodiles do have a softer side and have even been known to be concerned parents of their unborn offspring. A nesting pair will guard their eggs, even rolling them around gently in their mouths to help the babies break through the shell at hatching time. Perhaps it’s the rugged appearance of crocodiles that has some dampening effect on many peoples’ ability to empathize with their plight, yet there are a few who see, truly see, the vulnerable spirit that lies beneath that thick skin.

One Croc Finds a Hero

Canadian born Elizabeth Koubena runs the Society for the Protection of Stray Animals (SPAZ) in Greece. Under her leadership, the group has spayed and neutered more than 21,000 dogs and cats and helped with specialized veterinary care for countless of injured strays. Those were perhaps warm-up exercises to prepare Elizabeth for the complexity of rescuing one young croc.



The crocodile was found abandoned at the roadside in Crete. It was turned in to the Hellenic Wildlife Center during summertime, and because of their modest resources, had spent a full year living in a black tub filled with water. The staff wanted a better life for their friend, but they simply couldn't provide it.



FULL story at link.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/causes/nile-crocodile-signals-rescuer-im-still-alive.html#ixzz35hnQjQg4

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Nile Crocodile Signals Rescuer, “I’m Still Alive!” (Original Post) Omaha Steve Jun 2014 OP
K&R Alex P Notkeaton Jun 2014 #1
Kick Omaha Steve Jun 2014 #2
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