The
History of Colorado Gators
Erwin and Lynne Young moved from Post, Texas to Alamosa, Colorado
in September 1974 with their four children, Mark, Mike, Sherri, and
Jay. Erwin learned of the geothermal water resources available in
the San Luis Valley and wanted to grow Tilapia, an African perch that
requires warm water and is very good to eat.
In 1977, they purchased an 80 acre farm with a geothermal well on it.
Erwin started his tilapia farm that still ships live fish to Denver
weekly and we also sell live fish on site. That farm is where Colorado
Gators Reptile Park is located. It wasn't until 1987 that they
purchased 100 baby alligators to dispose of dead fish and the remains
of filleted fish.
Those baby gators grew quickly in the warm geothermal water (87ºF)
and the locals wanted to see them, so we opened to the public in
1990. Soon we were in the spotlight of many media programs and
articles. Individuals with overgrown alligators and other
reptiles such as large pythons, tortoises, iguanas and more started
dropping them off with us.
We have become a sanctuary for unwanted exotic pets and we care for
them as best we can. We display them for the public to understand
the dangers in owning these pets and we take them to schools for
educational programs.
Visit us and learn more!