Crocodile Zoo in Eskilstrup, Denmark is experiencing heightened crocodile mating behavior due to recent violent weather. According to Nina Hedegaard, a bookkeeper and souvenir manager at the zoo, the combination of summer heat, rain, lightning, and thunder stimulates the carnivorous reptiles.
The Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) has issued warnings about local thunderstorms, creating ideal conditions for crocodile mating rituals. These weather patterns have been observed to excite the crocodiles, with almost all of them appearing to enjoy the wet conditions.
While the weather generally pleases the crocodiles, the zoo’s tortoises are facing potential problems. The influx of cold rainwater threatens to flood their heated indoor enclosure, preventing them from warming up and potentially causing them to become chilled.
As a precaution, plans are in place to move the tortoises to their winter houses should flooding occur. Some of the zoo’s other species, such as the parrots, are also enjoying the weather by bathing in the rain.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Crocodile Zoo remains open to the public. According to Nina Hedegaard, after 25 years in operation, they do not plan to close due to weather conditions.