August/September 2004
Brought to you by your friends at Alligator Bayou

Summer has been amazingly busy for us, and we thank all of you for supporting us with your repeat visits, your kind words and belief in our dream. We're almost finished with the new gator pit, and it is absolutely amazing. It's over three times the size of our original eco-exhibit, and we'll be getting at least some of our new residents during the next month. Gator round up!!! We're also considering putting some deer in the new pit (NO, NOT FOR FOOD). The deer will have the ability to learn the gators during the winter, and their habitat will overlap (safely) with the gators! Ron Whitaker has been the guiding hand in the new habitat, and his amazing experience has proven to be priceless.

Frank, Jamie and I are also planning a trip to Africa. We can't wait to see elephants, lions, crocs and all the amazing wildlife. We're taking this opportunity to learn about conservation and restoration a world away.

The turtle exhibit has been a huge success - we are capturing our visitor's attention by wowwing them with the huge and impressive alligator snapping turtles and then throwing in a couple of snakes and frogs for good measure.

We've noticed several of the wild gators nesting, (see related article) and Knot nose (in our original alligator exhibit) built a nest and laid eggs. We're hoping these will be fertile this year. Last year's clutch didn't hatch but we're watching this year's very closely.

We've also seen some great birds this last month. Roseate spoonbills (in flocks!), wood storks, Mississippi kites, and literally hundreds of herons and egrets. More gators have been showing up in the swamp, and the rain this year has really greened up the forest. Don't miss the sunsets - they are spectacular. We can't wait to see what the fall brings (besides our new gators!!!).

Hopefully "back to school" hasn't been that bad for all of you. Take care and we hope to see you again soon!!!!!

Later, gator!
Jim & Frank

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