SOUTH PADRE ISLAND — Often found in slow-moving rivers, swamps, marshes and lakes, many will be able to learn about these creatures during interactive experiences.
Gator shows will be held at the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary Saturday, Feb. 15, at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.
Gator Country owners Gary and Shannon Saurage will conduct the educational shows.
According to a press release from the SPI Birding and Nature Center, Gary and Shannon are lead nuisance alligator rescuers in Texas and have made television appearances on CMT, A&E, Bravo and Animal Planet.
They and their team are based in Beaumont and are known for rescuing nuisance alligators from people’s backyards, ponds and swimming pools, as well as those that are stranded after severe weather such as hurricanes and floods.
During the shows, attendees will learn about American alligators such as Big Padre.
He is 50 years old, weighs 750 pounds and is 12 feet, 7 inches long.
Big Padre arrived at the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary in May 2019 along with close to 50 juvenile alligators that range from 3 feet to 5 feet.
According to SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary personnel, Big Padre was rescued from Port Arthur, where he was unintentionally being fed at a boat dock when people cleaned their fish.
In addition to Big Padre, attendees will be able to learn about non-venomous snakes such as pythons and boa constrictors.
The event is free with paid admission into the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary.
Gary said what he and Shannon enjoy most about the shows is being able to educate the public and creating a fun experience for them.
“The kids will be able to hold baby alligators and get to see some of the bigger ones that we’ll be working with,” Gary said. “So it’s a very interactive show.”
IF YOU GO
WHAT — Gator Shows
WHEN — Saturday, Feb. 15, starting at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.
WHERE — South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, 6801 Padre Blvd.
ADMISSION — $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for children
PHONE — (956) 761-6801
WEBSITE — www.spibirding.com
