7 reasons to become a member of the Crocworld Conservation Centre family

For a family-friendly destination that promises hours of entertainment in a stunning natural environment, Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast can’t be beat! But, with so much to see and do, one visit is just never enough. Fortunately, Crocworld Conservation Centre is offering the budget-friendly annual membership which has many exciting benefits!

“With lockdown restrictions now easing, people want to get out into nature and enjoy memorable family experiences,” said Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, James Wittstock. “We understand that many businesses have suffered, and finances are limited, which is why the Crocworld Membership is a really worthwhile option. With so many exciting new residents and activities happening at Crocworld, the membership gives our loyal visitors real value for money and ensures they never miss out.”

1. Freedom to visit anytime

Responding to popular demand, Crocworld Conservation Centre is open seven days a week from 9am to 4.30pm. With the Crocworld Membership, families can pop by for a quick visit after school, spend an entire day at the Centre on the weekend, or enjoy a midday break from work, relaxing with the delightful residents. With membership, there’s freedom to visit whenever!

2. Get to really know the residents

Crocworld is home to a wide variety of diverse creatures, with new residents welcomed regularly. With a Crocworld Membership, visitors can get to know the many interesting characters personally, their individual tastes and moods, likes and dislikes. Some of these colourful residents include:

- Isis, the African Fish Eagle who has been welcoming visitors to the Centre since 1987;

- Henry the Nile crocodile who, at 120 years old, is the oldest known Nile croc in captivity (don’t miss his birthday celebration on 16 December!);

- Colgate, the second biggest Nile crocodiles with his toothy grin and 36 wives; and

There’s also the new pair of critically endangered West African Slender Snouted Crocodiles who form part of the Centre’s breeding programme, and Cuvier’s Dwarf Caiman, the smallest of the crocodilian species. In the (well-secured!) snake enclosure, there are black and green mambas, exotic pythons, and more!

For those who prefer the soft and cuddly animals, there’s the animal farm which is home to a range of farmyard critters, including bunnies, goats, guinea pigs, pigs and tortoises.

Crocworld Members will even get to know the on-site team, including Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, James Wittstock; Crocworld’s Reptile Curator, Wade Kilian; Crocworld’s Bird Curator, Ryne Ferguson; and Fish Eagle Café’s Executive Chef and Manager, Morne van Zyl.

3. Enjoy some bird watching

And there’s no way Crocworld Members will be able to overlook the feathered residents and visitors that make this such a vibrant place, including the 200 or so local birding species that roam the grounds freely. Besides the aforementioned, Isis - who certainly cannot be ignored - Crocworld has an extensive aviary and the newly-opened Raptor Wing home to many birds of prey. These include booted eagles, Eurasian eagle owls, Harris hawk and jackal buzzards – among many others.

The Centre also has a successful breeding programme with Crocworld welcoming two Marabou Stork chicks late last year – the first in the Centre’s history. They also have the endangered Cape Vulture species forming part of the breeding programme which is a vital conservation method to preserve the existing gene pool. They’re joined by the latest feathered addition, a pair of white, mute swans regally named Elizabeth and Philip.

4. A photographer’s haven

For wildlife photographers looking to get some iconic images, a Crocworld Membership promises an endless supply of inspirational angles. There’s the resident birdlife and wildlife who are always ready to pose for a shot, as well as the incredible natural flora on the grounds. The beautiful scenery sets the perfect backdrop for photoshoots, and for those looking to capture marine creatures in action, Crocworld has the recently revamped Whale Watching Walkway.

5. The best food in town

Crocworld Members can also enjoy some quality-made food with the best seaviews at the on-site Fish Eagle Café. The site has a newly-revamped wraparound deck for outside dining, and in addition to the expansive meal offerings, Fish Eagle Café also boasts a delectable Gourmet Burger Menu. The café often runs not-to-be-missed specials and hosted evenings to watch out for.

6. Kids edu-tainment

Crocworld hosts daily talks, Tuesdays to Sundays, at 11am and 3pm, including exciting animal feedings and handlings. The Centre is committed to conservation education, particularly among the youth, and families with Crocworld Membership can take advantage of these interesting and informative talks every day!

7. Enjoy time in nature

It’s been quite a stressful few months, and one of the best ways to ease stress and lower anxiety levels is through a bit of ‘nature therapy’. The simple act of sitting in a natural setting, for as little as 10 minutes, has shown to drastically ease stress and elevate mood levels. A Crocworld Membership allows visitors to take advantage of the beautifully-landscaped indigenous gardens, the lush, coastal dune forest, and the incredible ocean views. Alongside the soothing bird calls and enchanting animal discussions, this is the perfect space to relax and unwind.

Crocworld Conservation Centre Membership Fees

All Crocworld Memberships are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase, so stop by and buy one whenever!

1 x Adult Membership: R270

1 x Children Membership: R175

1 x Pensioner Membership: R190

1 x Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children aged 4 to 12 years): R740

*Children under 4 years enter free of charge.

All Covid-19 protocols are in place at Crocworld and visitors are urged to wear masks, sanitise and follow family group social distancing regulations. To find out more about Crocworld Conservation Centre Membership and exciting events, visit www.crocworld.co.za or ‘Crocworld Conservation Centre’ on Facebook. Alternatively, contact Crocworld Conservation Centre on 039 976 1103. To find out more about Fish Eagle Café, call 083 658 7073 or email mvanzyl@cbl.co.za