Thailand’s croc ‘docs’ put on a show, wrestle with fearsome beasts

In the sweltering heat of Samut Prakan, just outside Bangkok, the strains of “Final Countdown” by the Swedish pop band Europe herald the start of a show billed as a death-defying spectacle. 

A “crocodile doctor” emerges, dressed as the Thai folklore hero Kraithong, ready to wrestle with one of nature’s most fearsome creatures at the Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo, a tourist attraction since 1950.

Established by Uthai Youngprapakorn, the farm has grown to become one of the world’s largest, housing over 60,000 freshwater and saltwater crocodiles. Despite Thailand’s economic downturn and dwindling tourist numbers, the crocodile show remains the star attraction.

Sompop “Max” Ratdee, 36, is one of the farm’s veteran crocodile handlers. Born at the farm about 30 km (19 miles) from Bangkok, he followed in his parents’ footsteps, turning a childhood raised among crocs into a dangerous profession. 

“How often do I get bitten? Maybe once every five or six years, sometimes seven. It’s not that frequent,” Max told BenarNews with a laugh.

Max’s journey began with cleaning ponds and feeding reptiles. He gradually mastered the art of crocodile wrestling. Today, he’s part of a five-person team performing six shows on weekdays and nine on weekends and holidays.

The life of a crocodile wrestler is far from glamorous. With a monthly salary of 13,000 baht (U.S. $401), these performers risk their lives daily in a profession that life insurance companies refuse to cover.

Meanwhile, as Thailand modernizes and animal welfare concerns grow, these attractions face increasing scrutiny. Some activists argue that such performances are cruel and outdated, stressful to the animals and risky to human lives.

Despite the challenges, Max and his colleagues remain committed. 

“We respect these animals,” he said. “We’re not just putting on a show, we’re educating people about crocodiles, their behavior and conservation.”