Christopher “CrocodileChris” Gillette is offering those who feel adventurous an opportunity to get “up close and personal” with one of North America’s most fearsome predators.
Chris is a South Florida-based wildlife biologist, photographer, conservationist, professional alligator wrestler and actor who has appeared on Animal Planet‘s hit show Gator Boys, the popular Discovery Channel show Trailblazers , the Travel Channel and History Channel.
DeeperBlue.com caught up with Chris at the Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo in Fort Lauderdale, where Chris‘ exhibitor stand was packed solid with fans and people who wanted to learn more about the incredible close-up photography of apex predators and exotic wildlife in their natural habitat. Besides his passion for alligators, Chris is known for his shark and crocodile diving, exotic snake photographs and his work on invasive species issues that threaten native habitat.
Chris says:
“This is an absolutely amazing experience that will put you in the water, unrestrained, to see alligators in their aquatic habitat and view how this top predator maneuvers through the water.”
The exciting tour takes place at Everglades Outpost, a wildlife rehabilitation sanctuary located in Homestead, Florida, less than an hour from Miami. During the three-hour experience, you will have the opportunity to snorkel/freedive with the alligators, in their habitat, take photos or have Chris take your photo as you observe these magnificent animals eye-to-eye.
“The experience is hands off and is designed for serious underwater photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. This is not a gator wrestling class, you will be able to be very close to the animal and observe and record it’s behavior.”
Touching an alligator is not permitted by law, except under very specific conditions. Safety is paramount, and Chris will be in the water with you the entire time.
“I am with you at all times, and only one guest in the water at a time with me….I’ll be giving a full safety briefing before we get in and also provide information on alligator natural history and behavior.”
The tour is available to single divers or up to four people in the group. For more information, details and pricing, you can contact Chris at ChrisGilletteWildlife@gmail.com.
