Employees help move gators

On May 5, SLVREC employees took the opportunity to help REC member Colorado Gator Farm move seven creatures as they continue to power through the obstacles brought forth by the April 18 fire at the park.
Following a conversation with REC CEO Eric Eriksen, 10 employees and family members spent about three hours helping out at the farm. The volunteers aided in the relocation of crocodiles and caimans from the old greenhouse to the fish building, as well as moving 10-foot alligator Smiley to his new habitat.
The employees had a blast and loved getting to see the amazing relationships owner Jay Young and his employees have with all the animals. They took time to mend wounds on each of the creatures and could even be seen giving them sweet kisses.
The April fire claimed numerous snakes, turtles, tortoises, caimans, parrots and a few rescue cats. With demolition and rebuilding on the horizon, keeping the remaining animals safe is the number one priority for the Youngs.
The incredible experience will stick with REC employees for many years to come.

Pictured in header: SLVREC employees Nelson Arambula, Terry Daley, Devin Ruiz, Jarrod Sisneros and Rudy Vialpando, along with Mykah, moved 350-pound alligator Smiley to his new home.

Pictured at right: Terry Daley takes a small crocodile from owner Jay Young.