Text / Compiled and reported by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network
 

The "King Crocodile of Matou," which has been a fixture in Tainan for nearly four decades, announced it will cease operations on January 23, 2016. It also declared that from now until closing day, Tainan residents can visit for free by presenting their ID cards.

The King Crocodile of Matou in Tainan has been operating locally for 39 years. Established by Qiu Xihé, it was once a regular feature on TV variety shows and became widely known. The park houses crocodiles and many exotic animals, among which the 1,250 Taiwanese catty (approximately 750 kg) giant crocodile "Xiaohe" is a must-see animal star at the park. Recently, the King Crocodile of Matou stated that due to the introduction of stricter new animal protection laws causing operational pressure, the formerly popular crocodile performance shows can no longer be held, resulting in visitor numbers far below previous levels. It announced that it will officially close on January 23, 2016. Over the next six months, arrangements will be made for the relocation of all current animals in the park, and the big star "Xiaohe" is planned to be sent abroad. Following the news, many visitors have already flocked to take photos with Xiaohe as a keepsake.