Update on ... crocodiles

A review of recent developments in a topic of general interest

In January, nine baby crocodiles were among a consignment of drugged animals seized by customs officials at Moscow airport. There were also 20 monkeys and 119 parrots.

In February, game handler Karla Bredl, 21, was saved from a crocodile at a wildlife park in Australia when her father jumped on its back and stuck his thumbs in its eyes. As she was dragged from his jaws, she said: "I'm bloody glad he's got no teeth."

The last animal at Kisangani zoo in Zaire was given a rare tribute by keepers when it died in May: they refused to eat it. "You can't eat a sick crocodile," said the sole remaining keeper.