Croc in attendance at Frome Technical
published: Saturday | February 5, 2005

By Melissa Charley, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

A CROCODILE, which was found on the compound of the Frome Technical High School in Westmoreland last Thursday, is now the centre of attraction at the school and is also generating much interest in the wider community.

"It is creating quite a buzz in the Frome community," said Douglas Gordon, a member of the school's administrative department. "It is attracting a lot of visitors."

While the administrator stated that he understood the general interest created by the presence of the crocodile, because examinations are now under way, guards at the school gate have been instructed to bar visitors from coming in to view the reptile during school hours.

Mr. Gordon said the crocodile was found lying on the bank of a pond located at the rear of the school compound. An agricultural science teacher, who was reportedly on his way to the school's farm to feed the chickens, made the discovery.

Representatives from the Wildlife Association who were alerted of the presence of the crocodile on the school compound, visited the institution on Monday.

STUDENTS' FEARS

Mr. Gordon said they surveyed the property, took pictures of the animal and have made arrangements to have it removed on Sunday.

The crocodile may have entered the school compound from the nearby Cabaritta River, which flows in close proximity to the school, Mr. Gordon believes. His position was taken based on the fact that crocodile eggshells were found on a section of the property which is quite close to the river.

Although no other crocodiles have been found, students and teachers are moving around the school compound fearing that there may be other crocodiles lurking in the area.