Or. Admin. Code § 603-015-0515

Current through Register Vol. 63, No. 10, October 1, 2024

Section 603-015-0515 - Crocodilians - Special Requirements

(1) Animal Classification:

(a) Exotic crocodilians include all individuals of the order Crocodylia including but not limited to American Alligators and Crocodile Hybrids.

(2) Inside enclosure: The indoor enclosure should be constructed in such a way as to prevent escape of the animal. Latching clips and/or locks are required on doors and windows that open. The lid to the enclosure shall be well ventilated and may be covered with wire mesh, appropriate to the size of the animal, to prevent its escape. The enclosure area shall consist of a dry area and a water area. Both areas must be easily accessible by the animal. The area of the enclosure must be large enough such that the animal can turn around without its body touching any side and can perch its entire body on dry surface. The depth of the water shall be enough to fully submerge the animal. The temperature on the dry surface in the enclosure must be maintained between 75-90 degrees F. Ambient air temperature shall be kept between 75 to 90 degrees F. The water temperature must be maintained between 75-85 degrees F at all times.

(3) Outside enclosure: Crocodilians may be kept outside if weather conditions and ambient temperatures meet minimum temperatures as described for indoor enclosures, otherwise may only be outside during exercise regiment. When transporting the animal to and from outside it is required that the animal be carried in a secure portable container that encloses the animal completely. Fencing for outside enclosures must be of sufficient strength and height to prevent escape of the animal. Bottom of the fence must also be secure enough to prevent escape of the animal. Fencing must also prevent unauthorized persons and animals from entering the enclosure.

(4) Feeding: Owners must demonstrate knowledge of crocodilian nutrition. Exotic crocodilians must be fed a balanced diet sufficient to their needs but such food items may not include live animals.

(5) No exotic crocodilian may be restrained by a harness or muzzle as primary means of confinement.

(6) Security: In order to provide for the safety of the public, exotic crocodilians shall be handled in accordance with the following:

(a) All outside enclosures for exotic crocodilians shall be kept separate from the public in a way that prevents contact with animals or persons outside the enclosure.

(b) Exotic crocodilians shall be confined within their enclosures (inside and/or outside) and only allowed outside them for medical treatment or for removal to another approved facility. When being transported, the animal must be secured in a portable container within the vehicle.

(7) Sanitation: Excreta, uneaten food and any type of algae or debris shall be removed from enclosures (including the water pond) as often as necessary to prevent contamination of the food or water, reduce disease hazards and reduce odors.

Or. Admin. Code § 603-015-0515

DOA 39-2023, renumbered from 603-011-0706, filed 10/31/2023, effective 10/31/2023

Statutory/Other Authority: ORS 561 & 609

Statutes/Other Implemented: 609.335 & ORS 609.305