What was started initially as a tourist attraction based on the success of similar facilities world-wide
soon developed into a successful breeding facility!
Warm subtropical conditions on the South Coast together with ideal crocodile accommodation have
proved ideal for crocodile breeding and thousands of crocodiles have been produced at Riverbend since the
first hatchlings were born in the summer of 1983. Approximately 6000 crocodiles hatched at Riverbend
Crocodile Farm each year are transferred shortly after hatching to a commercial facility situated in
the Natal Midlands.
The crocodile feeding presented is particularly spectacular in summer when the crocodiles go into a
feeding frenzy consuming as much as five kilograms of either beef or chicken each.
Over the last 20 years Howard Kelly, a member of the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group, has
presented the visitors to Riverbend Crocodile Farm with a fascinating presentation which covers
topics ranging from crocodile ecology to the impact of crocodiles on human populations in Africa. Having
worked with crocodiles for more than 30 years Howard has imparted some fascinating knowledge to
thousands of visitors.
Crocodile hatching demonstrations in January and February have become legendary on the South
Coast and are the highlight for many visitors when Howard takes people through this natural phenomenon
the step by step. Thousands of visitors return each year just to experience this wonderful natural
phenomenon.