Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
To report a reptile in need of assistance in India, please call Madras Crocodile Bank Trust at 944-598-0950 or email info@madrascrocodilebank.org
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT) is a reptile sanctuary in Chennai that works to save the vulnerable Mugger crocodile and the critically endangered Gharial crocodile. It is India’s most successful breeding program.
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
Opening Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00am to 5:00pm; closed Mondays
Admission: Adults Rs.110; children ages 3 through 12 Rs.50. Guided tours Rs.400 per person; VR experience Rs.40 per person. Check current official visitor information
Location: Vadanamelli Village, East Coast Road, Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Tamil Nadu. Approximately 45km south of Chennai and 15km north of the tourist town of Mamallapuram.
Phone #: +91-44-2747-2447 or 944-598-0950
Getting There: Easily accessible via bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw
Key Takeaways
* Protects and conserves reptiles, particularly crocodiles, alligators, and other vulnerable species.
* Runs captive breeding programs and conducts research to understand the biology, behavior, and conservation needs of reptile species.
* The trust is open to the public. Opening hours are from 9:00am to 5:00pm, Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays)
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust: A Haven for Endangered Reptiles
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT) protects reptiles and their habitats through scientific research, captive breeding, education, and outreach activities. Their efforts are mostly focused on Indian species and ecosystems. Moreover, the sanctuary cares for various species, including the critically endangered Indian Gharial and the mighty Saltwater Crocodile.
It was established in 1976 by renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker. The Croc Bank currently consists of a large reptile park near Chennai, Southern India, and a couple of field projects.
Want to learn more about crocodiles? Check out my Top 22 Amazing Crocodile Facts blog!
Visiting Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
The trust is open to the public and welcomes individuals who are keen to learn about reptiles. Visitors can explore the trust’s facilities, observe various reptile species, attend educational programs, and engage with conservation initiatives. Furthermore, all guests will be provided with torches and escorted around the Croc Bank by trained guides.
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday 07:00 PM to 08:15 PM ( For more information email education@madrascrocodilebanktrust.org / Leave a message at 944-598-0950 ).
Want to learn more about alligators? Check out my Top 15 Alligator Amazing Facts blog!
VR at the Croc Bank
You can enjoy a virtual reality reptile show at the Croc Bank on weekends and public holidays. These movies teleport you to the natural habitats and enclosures of reptiles around the world. Also, it lets you watch them up close!
The Croc Bank Bird Sanctuary
The Croc Bank, with its ponds, large old trees, and thick shrubs, is a bird sanctuary with over 60 bird species. In the winter months, thousands of waterbirds come to nest here. The primary goal of the sanctuary is to conserve and protect avian species, including resident and migratory birds
Conservation through Education
Education forms a cornerstone of the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust’s conservation efforts. They actively engage with the public through educational programs and initiatives. Moreover, they raise awareness and understanding of reptiles and their ecological significance.
Visitors have the opportunity to learn about various reptile species, their habitats, and the importance of conserving these ecosystems. Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and informative workshops, the trust empowers individuals to become advocates for wildlife conservation.
Centre of Herpetology in Chennai
The Centre of Herpetology, situated in the vibrant city of Chennai, focuses on comprehensive research, conservation, and public education. They work to increase the population of threatened species through carefully designed captive breeding initiatives.
Andaman & Nicobar Environmental Team (ANET)
The Andaman & Nicobar Environmental Team (ANET) is located in the enchanting South Andaman Island. This research center focuses on the unique reptile species found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS)
Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts in Western Ghats of Southern India. This center specializes in studying the rich biodiversity of the rainforests, with a particular focus on reptiles.
Gharial Conservation Alliance (GCA)
The Gharial Conservation Alliance (GCA) works for the protection and recovery of the critically endangered gharial. This unique species of crocodile, found in the Chambal River in Northern India.
This research center works closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Their focus is to implement conservation measures that safeguard the gharial and its habitat.
Snake Conservation and Snakebite Mitigation Project
Recognizing the importance of both human safety and snake conservation, the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust has implemented comprehensive programs. These programs aim at saving lives, providing medical support, and raising awareness about snakebite prevention and treatment.
They have conducted hundreds of workshops across India, with a focus on living around snakes safely. Snakebite Mitigation efforts also include educational materials that have been translated into several regional languages.
Zoo Exchange Program at Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust actively participates in zoo exchanges. They foster collaboration and knowledge sharing with other zoos and conservation organizations.
If you represent a zoo or conservation institution, you can reach out to Madras Crocodile Bank Trust for exchange programs and collaborative projects.
Be a Part of Madras Crocodile Bank Trust
Your support will play a vital role in the trust’s efforts to protect endangered reptile species. If you’re interested in supporting Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, there are several ways to do so
– Volunteer: Volunteering at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust is a fulfilling way to actively contribute to reptile conservation.
– Adopt a Reptile: Through the adoption program, you can contribute to the care and well-being of a specific reptile species, helping to fund its housing, food, and medical needs.
– Become a Docent: If you possess a deep fascination for reptiles, becoming a docent at Madras Crocodile Bank Trust is a perfect fit for you.
– Film-Making: If you have a flair for cinematography, storytelling, or video editing, you can explore the opportunity of collaborating with the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust on film-making projects.
Follow Madras Crocodile Bank Trust on Social Media
Website: https://madrascrocodilebank.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MadrasCrocodileBankTrust/
$ Donate: https://madrascrocodilebank.org/donate
