Massive Rainstorm Unleashes Over 70 Dangerous Crocs from a Farm

Heavy rainfall in China within the past week has resulted in severe consequences throughout the country. This includes at least seven deaths. Among the effects of this storm is the escape of over 70 crocodiles from a farm in Maoming.

The relentless rain, which comes as a result of Typhoon Haikui, has wreaked havoc on much of China. The endless days of rainfall have caused over one hundred landslides in the country, as well as several deaths. In the midst of the record levels of rainfall, dozens of crocodiles have escaped from a farm. This farm is located in the western Guangdong province. Authorities in the region have warned residents to remain in their homes to avoid any encounters with the reptiles.

Of the crocodiles that did escape, 69 are adults, while 6 are juveniles. This totals 75 crocodilians roaming the streets of Maoming. Some of these crocodiles have been captured. The crocs were able to escape after the intense rainfall caused a lake on the commercial farm to flood and thus overflow.

Why Are Crocodiles Bred in China?

For those unfamiliar with the practice, you may be wondering why there are commercial crocodile farms in China. As it turns out, the venture is quite common throughout the world, including in the United States. However, different areas may practice crocodile or alligator farming for different reasons.

In China, crocodiles are popular for both their meat and their skin. Much of crocodile farming began as a way to meet the demand for expensive skins. However, crocodilian meat is common in many Cajun, African, and Asian cuisines. As a result, in the same way there are dairy farms or similar businesses dotting the landscapes of the world, these reptiles may be bred on specialized farms as well.

Though a common practice, this is not to say it occurs without concerns. Many worry about the welfare of the animals, as well as the spread of diseases and escapes such as that currently happening in China as well as that which occurred in 2013 on the Rakwena Crocodile Farm, which resulted in nearly 15,000 crocodiles being released into the Limpopo River.