Crocodile tears: Thai farmer takes action to keep community safe

A Thai farm owner in the northern province of Lamphun took the heartbreaking decision to kill 125 crocodiles to ensure the safety of his neighbours and residents. The action was taken as a precaution, given that the animals could have escaped during the floods.

Extensive agricultural land and livestock farms in various provinces, particularly in Isaan and northern Thailand, have suffered significant damage due to the recent flooding. Photographs of pigs, cows, and pets being swept away by the floodwaters circulated on social media, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

According to a report on Thai PBS, nine provinces are still underwater, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Phrae, Phitsanulok, Nong Khai, Loei, Ang Thong, and Ayutthaya. The media reported that 28,651 households have been affected by the floods.

Although Lamphun was not on the list, the heavy rain, which continued for several days, forced the crocodile farm owner, Natthapak Khumkad, to make a difficult decision about his business.

Natthapak took to social media to share that he decided to kill the crocodiles he had cared for over 17 years, to prevent potential issues and complications that could arise from the floods.

“Today, I decided to remove all of the crocodiles that I have cared since I started the business 17 years ago. The main reason for this decision was the worsening rain and flood situation. This is an urgent choice I have had to make. Better safe than sorry.

“I never thought I would have to do this in my lifetime, but I had to. I spent a long time thinking about this issue and concluded that this is the best choice for now. Our farm will no longer breed crocodiles or offer their eggs from next year. I believe that every cloud has a silver lining.

“Heavy rain and mud made our work more difficult today.”

Natthapak included pictures in his post, showing him and his team removing the animals from their cage. The photos showed Natthapak’s team using a backhoe to move the crocodiles from their enclosure to a pickup truck, wrapping them in plastic sheeting.

Natthapak’s followers and friends offered their support in the comments section. Many praised his decision for the public’s benefit, even though it would cost him in his business.

Natthapak revealed to Matichon that he had killed 125 adult crocodiles, which were the breeders of the farm, but kept 700 young crocodiles under 1 metre in length.