Would you consider a crocodile as a family pet? For Jonathan Araiza, a 29-year-old exotic animal enthusiast, this isn’t just a hypothetical – it’s his everyday reality. His pet crocodile, Gamora, is more than just an unusual animal; she’s a member of the household, much like a dog, enjoying cuddles and free roam of their home. But is owning a crocodile truly feasible, or even responsible, for the average person? Let’s delve into Jonathan’s unique pet ownership and explore the realities of having a crocodile as a pet.
Gamora: Not Your Typical Croc
Gamora, named after the Marvel character for her initially “aggressive” personality, defies typical crocodile behavior. Araiza explains that despite belonging to a species known for its wild aggression, Gamora is surprisingly docile. This temperament allows her to interact closely with Jonathan, even participating in modeling gigs. She navigates stairs with ease and uses a custom-built pond to hunt fish, showcasing a comfortable life tailored to her natural instincts within a domestic setting.
Araiza, who hails from San Luis Potosí, Mexico, acknowledges the peculiarity of his pet choice. He notes that Gamora’s adaptability to captivity is rare for her species. Her gentle nature is so exceptional that she allows handling and close proximity without becoming agitated – a stark contrast to the expected behavior of a crocodile.
The Daily Life of a Pet Crocodile Owner
Caring for Gamora is a meticulous daily routine for Araiza, who has been around exotic animals his entire life. Temperature control is paramount; he starts each day checking a digital thermostat to ensure her environment is warm enough, adjusting the heater as needed. Hygiene is also a critical aspect of her care. Araiza diligently washes Gamora’s water filter daily and cleans her pond to maintain water purity.
Beyond environmental maintenance, Araiza also performs daily health checks, looking for any injuries and ensuring Gamora is in good condition. He describes her routine of basking in her dry zone after her morning checks, highlighting a predictable and manageable aspect of her behavior.
Gamora’s diet is substantial, consisting of pre-slaughtered rabbits, rats, beef, chicken, and crustaceans sourced from hatcheries. This specialized diet reflects the carnivorous needs of a crocodile and the commitment required to meet those needs in a domestic setting.
Is a Crocodile the Right Pet for You?
While Jonathan Araiza’s story is captivating, it’s crucial to consider if keeping a crocodile as a pet is a realistic choice for most people. Araiza himself is an experienced exotic animal owner, also keeping chihuahuas, snapping turtles, and alligator turtles. His girlfriend, who also owns reptiles, shares his understanding and passion for these animals. This pre-existing experience and supportive environment are key factors in his successful crocodile ownership.
For the average person considering “Can I Have A Crocodile As A Pet?”, the answer is likely a resounding no. Crocodiles are powerful, potentially dangerous animals with complex needs that go far beyond those of typical pets. Legal restrictions, safety concerns, specialized care requirements, and the sheer commitment of providing a suitable habitat and diet make crocodile ownership exceptionally challenging and generally unsuitable for most households. Araiza’s case is an extraordinary exception, not the rule. His dedication, experience, and Gamora’s unique temperament create a situation that is far removed from the typical pet ownership scenario.
