Keepers at Atagawa Tropical and Alligator Garden in Higashi-Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture, scrubbed crocodiles and alligators with deck brushes as part of the annual year-end cleanup. The effort involved cleaning ponds and checking the reptiles' health.
At Atagawa Tropical and Alligator Garden in Higashi-Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture, keepers recently conducted the facility's annual year-end cleanup on December 30, 2025. Using deck brushes, they cleaned six ponds housing crocodiles, alligators, and gharials. They also scrubbed the heads and backs of about 100 semi-aquatic reptiles to remove a year's worth of grime.
The garden's head stated, “It’s a good opportunity to take a careful look at the crocodiles and check their health. I’m relieved that they look all fine.” This routine maintenance allows for thorough health inspections while maintaining hygiene for the reptiles.
The garden, a popular spot for tropical animals, ensures visitor safety through such practices. The cleaning was done meticulously to minimize stress on the animals.