WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo’s most terrifying resident devours first feed

One of the world’s largest crocodiles sinks his teeth into his first feed following three months of winter hibernation at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

Sydney – 3 October, 2012 – WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo today carried out a feed for the attraction’s most terrifying resident, a 700kg crocodile called Rex, who demolished an extra-large serving of beef ribs to celebrate his first bite after emerging from three months of winter fasting.

Expertly coordinated by WILD LIFE Sydney’s Reptiles Keeper, Jason Hainke, the feed was conducted behind a specially-constructed gate which keeps the staff completely safe from Rex’s hungry jaws. After months of hibernation, Rex, who is one of the world’s largest crocodiles, emerged from hibernation and aggressively chowed down on his first meal in three months.

“Throughout winter, it is common for crocodiles to enter a period of inactivity where they survive on their existing energy stores inside their body. Once the weather starts warming up, so does their appetite – to indicate their need to replenish their energy,” said Jason.

Rex, who has been a resident of WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo since 2009, was a so-called ‘rogue’ crocodile who was captured and placed into a crocodile farm near Darwin in the Northern Territory when his taste for local pet dogs drew him too close to the human population. 

“Rex, who is also referred to as nature’s ultimate killing machine, lives on his own for one simple reason – he doesn’t want to live with other crocodiles. We know this because at his previous home in Darwin, he ate two of his co-habitants,” Jason said.

Rex’s first feed at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo marks the return of the talks and feeds that will take place in the Kakadu Gorge exhibit every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, where visitors can witness firsthand the 700kg beautiful beast with jaws that can crush a pig’s head with one bite indulging in his daily meal.

Where: WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour (next door to Sydney Aquarium)

Opening Hours: Open 9am – 6pm daily. From 7 October 2012 – closing time is 8pm with last admissions at 7pm

Cost: Best price guaranteed online at www.wild-life.com.au

with up to 50% discount. For the best value, combine WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo with a pick and mix of your other favourite Sydney attractions including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Sydney Tower Eye and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary. The more you see, the more you save.