What is the size of the crocodile industry in South Africa?
The exact number of crocodile farms is not known, because each province issues its own permits for keeping crocodiles in captivity. In 2016, the veterinary faculty at the University of Pretoria carried out a survey of crocodile farms in South Africa and arrived at an estimated 85 facilities in existence. The production data collected from 45 of the largest commercial crocodile farms, responsible for more than 80% of total production output, indicated a breeding population of approximately 20 000 adult animals, producing an average of 165 000 hatchlings annually. Statistics show that only 68 000 skins, or 40%, are exported.
The balance do not achieve the minimum quality required for export and the reptiles are slaughtered and consumed locally, sold live to new entrants, or used as breeding stock.
How would you describe general conditions within the industry?
Two prime products are derived from commercial crocodile farming. First are the belly skins, with crocodile leather being considered the finest of all exotic leathers; these are predominantly used for belts, shoes, wallets and handbags. Second is crocodile meat, for which there is a local market.
World trade in Nile crocodile [Crocodylus niloticus] skins averages approximately 240 000 skins annually. The Nile skin trade comprises 30% of total world trade in classic crocodile skins, which consists of Alligator spp, C. niloticus, C. porosus (saltwater crocodile) and C. siamensis (Siamese crocodile) skins. As noted, South Africa exports on average 68 000 skins per annum; this represents 28% of total Nile skins traded and 9% of total world classic skins traded.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der May 07, 2021-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der May 07, 2021-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.