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West African Crocodile Conservation Project in Southern Morocco

  • 2026/02/22
  • 08:00 AM

West African Crocodile Conservation Project in Southern Morocco

Species / Key issue: West African Crocodile (Crocodylus suchus) – restoration of a heritage species that has disappeared from certain “gueltas” (desert wetlands) in Southern Morocco.
Location: Touizgui Guelta (Assa-Zag Province).
Status: Ongoing (acclimatization phase and station establishment).

General Objective

To establish an acclimatization station in Touizgui to build a founder population, test husbandry and safety conditions, and prepare a feasibility study for future reintroduction steps in selected natural sites.

Key Actions

  • Development of the acclimatization station (facilities, fencing, observation points, information center, etc.).

  • Permanent surveillance and security + safety measures (enclosure fencing, signage, access control).

  • Scientific and veterinary monitoring: health, survival, behavior, and adaptation.

  • Awareness-raising and information for local communities and stakeholders.

  • Development of an ecotourism management and promotion concept for the station (specifications, identification of local management partners).

Impact Indicators

  • Crocodiles acclimatized

  • Scientific monitoring of crocodiles in semi-captive conditions

  • Awareness sessions

  • Training of local residents

  • Involvement of local stakeholders in conservation

Partners

ANEF, Crocoparc, Aquatis, Perle aux oiseaux, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco Herpetology, local authorities, regional stakeholders.