Jonathan Araiza, a 29-year-old exotic pet enthusiast, shares his home with an unusual companion: Gamora, a Pet Crocodile who behaves more like a dog than a fearsome reptile. For Araiza, spending quality time with Gamora is completely normal, and he allows her to roam freely throughout his house, even inviting her for cuddles in his bed.
Gamora, aptly named after the Marvel character due to her initially aggressive nature which mellowed out, is surprisingly domesticated. She has learned to navigate stairs and enjoys independent access to a custom-built pond in the home, designed to allow her to hunt fish as she would in the wild.
Araiza explains, “I called her Gamora because when I first got her, she was small, green, and quite aggressive.” He further elaborated to NeedToKnow.Online, “Her species is known for its wild aggression, but Gamora’s temperament is so unique it has even allowed her to work as a model in videos and photoshoots.” This docile nature in a crocodile is indeed a rare phenomenon.
While acknowledging the unusual nature of keeping a crocodile as a pet, Araiza insists that Gamora is not as dangerous as popular perception might suggest. Having been an exotic animal owner his entire life, he is well-versed in the specific needs and meticulous care required for his reptilian companion. He understands the commitment involved in providing a suitable environment and routine for a pet crocodile.
“There are very few crocodiles that adapt to captivity as well as she does,” Araiza states. “The fact that she is such a docile specimen for her species, allowing you to hold her, be close, and remain calm and unagitated, is truly surprising.” This highlights the exceptional nature of Gamora’s temperament and her unique relationship with her owner.
Gamora’s diet is carefully curated and includes pre-slaughtered rabbit, rat, beef, chicken, and crustaceans sourced from hatcheries, ensuring her nutritional needs are met in a controlled and safe manner.
The daily care routine for a pet crocodile like Gamora is far from ordinary. Araiza meticulously monitors a digital thermostat to maintain the perfect temperature in her enclosure, especially crucial as the environment can often become too cold. He explains, “As soon as I wake up, the first thing I do is check the digital thermostat to ensure the temperature is correct. Often, the environment is a bit cool, but it’s easily adjusted by turning on the heater.”
Maintaining water quality is another critical aspect of pet crocodile care. Araiza diligently washes Gamora’s water filter daily to prevent dirty water and ensures her pond remains free of debris. This attention to hygiene is essential for the health and well-being of a semi-aquatic reptile.
Beyond environmental controls, Araiza performs daily health checks on Gamora. “I check her for any scratches and ensure she is generally in good health. By this time, she is usually either emerging from the water or already in her dry basking area, ready to sunbathe,” he adds. These routine checks are vital for early detection of any potential health issues in a pet crocodile.
Araiza’s household also includes two chihuahuas and various turtles, showcasing his broad experience with different types of pets. His girlfriend, who also keeps reptiles, has embraced Gamora, further integrating the crocodile into their domestic life. “Despite appearances, she is a reptile that enjoys a certain level of attention. The fact that my girlfriend also owns reptiles has been incredibly helpful in them both getting along quickly,” Araiza notes, highlighting the surprisingly social aspects of Gamora’s personality and the importance of a reptile-friendly household.
While Gamora’s story is fascinating, it’s important to remember that crocodiles are not typical pets. Their care is complex, demanding expertise, resources, and a deep understanding of their specific needs. Jonathan Araiza’s dedication to Gamora exemplifies responsible exotic pet ownership, but owning a pet crocodile is a significant undertaking that should not be considered lightly. For most, admiring these creatures in their natural habitats or accredited zoological facilities is the most appropriate and safest approach.
