Location & How to Get There
Crocodile Island sits inside Shanghai Zoo in Pudong New Area, at Lane 178 South Six Highway. It’s super easy to reach! Hop on Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station, then grab a taxi (about 10 minutes) or take bus Lu Shuxian. If you drive, the zoo has a big parking lot—just plug the address into your GPS. Pro tip: Crocodile Island is near the south entrance, so check the map when you arrive!
Natural Scenery: A Croc-Centric Adventure
Crocodile Island lives up to its name! This spot is packed with crocs of all sizes, from tiny baby ones to massive adults. You’ll walk through a series of bridges and观景台 (viewing platforms) that let you get really close to the action. The best part? The island mimics a croc’s natural habitat: think muddy banks, reed-filled ponds, and shady spots for these cold-blooded kings to lounge. Keep an eye out for Siamese crocs (they’ve got pointy snouts!) and Yangtze river crocs, which are rare and kinda look like mini dinosaurs.
Wildlife Encounters: More Than Just Crocs
While crocs are the star, the island isn’t just about them. You’ll spot turtles sunbathing on rocks, herons stalking fish in the water, and even flamingos chilling in their own pond. The paths wind through tall grass and bamboo groves, so don’t forget your camera—there’s tons of photo ops! Just stay on the designated trails; these crocs might look lazy, but they’re still wild.
Cool Extras: Education & Interaction
Crocodile Island isn’t just a walk-and-gawk. Check out the info boards along the way—they’ve got fun facts about croc behavior, diets, and conservation. Sometimes, zoo staff do live demos (like feeding the crocs!), but you’ll have to time it right. If you visit on a hot day, you might catch the crocs basking with their mouths open—don’t worry, they’re not hungry; they’re just cooling off!
Practical Tips: Plan Your Visit
- Best time to go: Morning or late afternoon. Midday sun can get brutal, and the crocs will hide in the shade.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, and comfy shoes (you’ll be walking a lot!).
- Families: Kiddos love the croc-themed exhibits, but keep a close eye—some areas have steep edges.
- Food/Drinks: There’s a small café near the south entrance. Pro tip: Buy ice cream before you enter Crocodile Island; no vendors inside!
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Even if you’re not a “croc person,” Crocodile Island is worth a stroll. It’s peaceful (away from the zoo’s busier sections), the scenery is lush, and let’s be real—how often do you get to see this many crocs in one place? Pair it with a visit to the panda or leopard areas for the full Shanghai Zoo experience. Trust me, your friends will crocodile-envy your photos!
Key words: Crocodile Island, Shanghai Zoo, Pudong, crocs, wildlife, viewing platforms, info boards, live demos, flamingos, Yangtze river crocs.