Ao Jin Crocodile Park

　　　The Crocodile Park is situated in the Jintan Economic Development Zone and was solely invested in by Hong Kong Ao Jin International Investment Company. Covering an area of 50 acres, the park currently houses over 3,000 Siamese crocodiles from Thailand. It is not only the largest crocodile breeding base in the Yangtze River Delta region but also an agricultural leisure and sightseeing destination that integrates crocodile breeding, product development, science education, and tourism. It is also the first agricultural tourism attraction in Jintan to be developed by the local tourism authorities.

　　　　Crocodiles are vertebrate amphibians and reptiles. They are carnivorous and cold-blooded, typically living 70–80 years, with some living over 100 years—about as long as turtles. Despite their large size, they are egg-layers. Generally, they reach physiological maturity at 7–8 years old and begin laying eggs. A female crocodile can lay 20–70 eggs per clutch, with eggs about the size of goose eggs. Gender is determined by incubation temperature: 30–31°C produces females, while 32–33°C produces males. Crocodiles are usually ready for processing and utilization at 2–3 years of age.

　　　　Although crocodiles may appear fierce, they are actually quite timid—some young crocodiles can even become ill from fright. Crocodiles rarely attack humans on their own initiative. On the contrary, with training, they can perform cooperatively with people. They allow themselves to be petted, kissed, ridden, and even have their mouths opened wide for people to put their heads inside, providing thrilling spectacles for audiences. Every part of the crocodile is valuable. Their skin is processed into high-end shoes, belts, and fine leather goods. Their meat is delicious and nutritious, while their blood and internal organs can be used in medicine. Their bones are rich in phosphorus and potassium, making them useful as chemical raw materials; their teeth can be made into decorative items for collection. This shows that crocodiles hold considerable economic value. Artificially breeding crocodiles not only helps protect natural wild resources but also allows for comprehensive development and utilization.

　　　　Here, we showcase the processes of crocodile breeding and processing, introduce related scientific knowledge about crocodiles, and offer a selection of crocodile-related products. Crocodile industry tourism is highly representative and distinctive, adding a new concept to the current tourism landscape. It provides Jiangsu, Changzhou, and Jintan with an additional tourism highlight.