Pholoso Manyama|Published
A 125-year-old Nile crocodile is attracting international attention after an Australian wildlife tour group filmed at Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
Henry, the famous Nile crocodile who calls Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre in Scottburgh home, is set to reach more international audiences following a visit by Australian wildlife tour operators in September.
The crocodile, believed to be the oldest Nile crocodile in captivity, will turn 126 in December. His extraordinary age has made him one of the centre’s best-known residents, drawing visitors interested in seeing the ancient reptile up close.
The latest visit saw Aussie Animal Tours and The Jungle film content at Crocworld, highlighting Henry’s story alongside the centre’s conservation and environmental education work.
Crocworld manager Susan Badat said the international exposure offered an opportunity to extend the conversation about wildlife conservation beyond the region.
“Henry is undoubtedly a local celebrity, but what makes these visits particularly special is the opportunity to use his incredible story to spark a much wider conversation about the importance of conservation,” Badat said.
“The international exposure also helps shine a light on the important work being done here on the Kwa Zulu Natal South Coast.”
Rebecca Rasmussen, co-owner of The Jungle alongside Lance Jeffrey, said the tour was designed to help visitors develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the challenges facing conservation efforts.
Aussie Animal Tours, run by Peter Birch, hosts the annual wildlife experience, bringing guests closer to some of Africa’s remarkable animals while educating them about their behaviour, ecological importance and the threats they face.
Rasmussen said the aim was to give visitors more than photographs and memorable encounters, encouraging them to understand their role in protecting wildlife for future generations.
She described Crocworld as a key conservation destination along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, where visitors can learn about animals through direct encounters.
Henry’s longevity offers a particularly compelling way to introduce visitors to Nile crocodiles, ancient predators that are often misunderstood.
For Rasmussen, these experiences are an important part of conservation education, helping people build connections with wildlife that last beyond their visit.
The footage from the visit is available on The Jungle’s YouTube channel.
Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre is located in Scottburgh on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast and is home to crocodiles, birds of prey, snakes, tortoises and other wildlife.
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