If you happen to have heard loud bellows issuing forth from the Australian Reptile Park in recent weeks, don’t be alarmed.
The Park’s contingent of 20 huge male American alligators have been searching for love in lockdown, with loud rumbles emanating from Alligator Lagoon.
Following the addition of 20 male alligators in May, competition for female attention has been intensifying.
Reptile Keeper, Jake Meney, said the intensity of the mating calls had escalated over previous years.
“Having 20 new males join our mostly female population in May has had a huge impact on the behaviour that we normally see this time of year,” Meney said.
“The sound of a male bellowing signals the start of breeding season and we expect it as the weather warms up.
“But what we (have been hearing is) unlike anything else I’ve ever heard.
“The new males are certainly keen to make themselves known.
“We timed the arrival of the new males for the beginning of winter, where they typically are less active and there’s a lower chance of conflict.
“Because of this, the new arrivals were settling in really well.
“Now, as they come out of hibernation, it’s game on for the attention of a gorgeous female.”
Keepers will have a close eye on the alligators over coming weeks.
Things could start to get heated as males compete for the attention of a female.
Come Summer, staff expect to see nests with little alligator eggs inside.
The Australian Reptile Park has the largest population of American alligators in Australia and high-octane alligator feeding shows are one of the highlights for visitors to the wildlife park.
Source:
Media release, Sep 3
Australian Reptile Park