Crocodilians is the scientific name for crocodiles, alligators, gharials and caimans. Collectively they are walking, breathing link to the dinosaurs that roamed the Earth 240 million years ago. And they look even more fierce as long as a pickup truck, and with giant mouths full of razor-sharp teeth.
Loathed for their eating habits and adored for their skins, alligators and crocodiles were hunted almost to extinction. But thanks to some creative conservation efforts the status of crocodilians has improved dramatically. Even though some populations are thriving, others are still at risk. Eight species remain on the endangered list, and some hover on the edge of extinction.
Alligator and Crocodile Rescue profiles the major programs and people around the world who are active in the conservation efforts to help these animals:
* Rene Hedegaard founded Denmark's Krokodille Zoo, which breeds and cares for 70 crocs from 19 species
* Christine Brewton is a member of Louisiana Fur and Alligator Advisory Council, which actually protects wild gators and their habitat
* Yosapong Temsiripong is a conservationist from Thailand who works to introduce captive-bred Siamese crocodiles into the wild.
Illustrated with 50 colour photographs, Alligator and Crocodile Rescue covers the people, the issues and the challenges involved in preserving a future for endangered wildlife.