Extracting semen from giant saltwater crocodiles isn't an easy task, but an artificial insemination project is doing just that and could shape the future of croc farming.
A sprawling crocodile farm on the Tropic of Capricorn is not where you would expect a royal reception.
Charles is just one of the big male "salties" from Koorana Crocodile Farm taking part in a groundbreaking trial with scientists from the University of Queensland. Mr Johnston, an associate professor in wildlife reproduction, says it's hoped the work will lead to more sustainable crocodile farming worldwide.
"That gives us an option if we were to collect semen from this farm and if we were going to another farm, we could essentially transport it and then do the AI at the other end."Despite funding issues, Mr Johnston and his fellow passionate researchers believe the work is beneficial for not only the conservation of crocodiles but other species around the world.
"In the United States with alligators, they have been quite successful at doing artificial insemination and that produces a number of offspring that way. Mr Lever says AI would be a game-changer for the industry while ensuring the preservation of the species and contributing to the economy.
Semen Collection Artificial Insemination Sustainable Crocodile Farming Research Conservation Crocodile Handlers Wildlife Researchers Scientists Crocodile Farm Breeding Crocodiles
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