THREE baby crocodiles are the latest unusual guests to enjoy the hospitality of the Blue Planet Aquarium, in Ellesmere Port.

Originally from Central America, the Morelets crocodiles measure less than 30cms – but will eventually grow up to three metres in length and could live to 80 years or more.

In the 1950s, the species, found in freshwater swamps and lagoons, was hunted to the brink of extinction for its valuable hide.

Blue Planet Aquarium reptile expert Joe Chattell said: “They may look adorable at the moment but in a few years they will be considerably more formidable.

“In the wild they are generally shy and timid although the larger ones can be considered dangerous to humans.

“We’re looking after the youngsters temporarily for Reaseheath College, in Nantwich, while they build a new enclosure for them, but in the meantime we’re all making the most of having such amazing animals on site.”

Morelets are unusual in that they are the only New World crocodile species to build mound nests. Females lay up to 45 eggs and then guard them for approximately 80 days.

As they hatch, the tiny babies make a noise which alerts the female to uncover the mound in order for them to reach the water.

Fortunately, the hunting of Morelets crocodiles is now illegal and the species has steadily recovered thanks to a combination of breeding programmes and habitat protection.

It is thought there are now upwards of 10,000 adult specimens in the wild, although the crocodile still faces threat from habitat loss and illegal poaching and is listed as a threatened species.

BLUE Planet Aquarium is open daily, from 10am. See www. blueplanetaquarium.com for more information.

liammurphy