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Originally Posted by pooh
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I draw the line at crocodiles. I will admit though that I think he's beautiful. All creatures are, in their own way. Ok, maybe not cockroaches.
About the alligator: It's a heartening story actually. The GA Dept. of Natural Resources sponsors an annual program for utility executives called Weekend for Wildlife at Sea Island, with excursions to some of the state's pristine barrier islands. The purpose is to educate utililty offials about fragile ecological systems to encourage utilities to protect important environmental resources and non-game wildlife. I was the public affairs manager for an electric utility at the time.
On Friday evening of the annal event, there is a formal silent auction with proceeds benefiting wildlife protection. Professionals who rehabilitate injured wildlife bring various species, mingle with the crowd and answer questions about the particular animal they have brought, it's habitat, how it was injured and is cared for, etc. It is awesome. There are a variety of owls and other birds, as well as (Gracie, please stop right here if you are reading this) alligators, snakes of various stripes and colors, and other creatures. There was even a magnificent bald eagle. It was delightful to see an owl right beside you turn its head 360 degrees.
Up close and properly handled, all of these animals, including the snakes, are simply magnificent. And I must say, when utility execs get to know these creatures up close and personal-- "in person," so to speak-- they have more appreciation for the animals and the ecosystem.
This particular alligator was injured as an infant, still quite young and used to folks. The handler showed be how and let me hold him. Don't remember his weight, but he was heavier than he looks.
The barrier island excursions are in groups of no more than 12, lead by an expert or two who make sure you look and don't touch. Another quick story. I went on one with eight people. Two of the people were Roselyn and Jimmy Carter. No political comments please, that's just who was there. In person, they were knowledgable, friendly and gracious.