Largest Reptile Sanctuary In US Seeks To Import Endangered Gharials From India

America's largest reptile bank, located in Arizona, has submitted an application to the Federal Government to import six gharials and an equal number of mugger crocodiles from Tamil Nadu.

The purpose of this import is to aid in the preservation of these endangered species.

The application was made to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as stated in a Federal notification issued on July 17 (Monday) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

According to the Federal notification, the Phoenix Herpetological Society has specifically requested a permit to import three male and three female captive-bred gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) and three male and three female captive-bred mugger crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris kimbula and Crocodylus palustris palustris) from the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in Tamil Nadu. This request is being made in order to contribute to the conservation efforts of these species.

"This paragraph is about enhancing the propagation or survival of a species. The notification is specifically for a single import. The general public is asked to submit their comments by August 16", said the notification released by their federal government.