Friday, February 16, 2007

Man domesticates a crocodile

A Costa Rican man has made an unlikely friend in a 5 metre, 450 kilogram crocodile. Gilberto Graham has seemingly domesticated the massive crocodile, starting his own show in the Costa Rican city of Limon.

In the show Graham cavorts with the crocodile in the water and gives commands that the animal follows. When asked if he doesn't fear attack, Graham said that he trusts the animal. "I've tried it many different times. I've been with the animal and tested him to see if he would betray me. He may get a little mean when there are a lot of people watching and he feels pressure."

Graham found the reptile wounded by a bullet five years ago after it had been shot by a farmer who wanted to keep it from eating his cattle. Graham claimed that he cured and fed the crocodile. Little by little they got to know each other and Graham gained the animal's confidence.

Reuters 1392/07 Keywords: animals, co-operation, training, frienship, odd couples, quirky, nature, ITN Source

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