Alligators in Michigan? Seriously?

Absolutely! There are alligators in Michigan!

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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Okay, they're not roaming around our waterways of rivers and streams.

There actually is an Alligator sanctuary in our state. It's called the Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary.

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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You probably had no Idea, I know I didn't. We have the John Ball Zoo with some reptiles and amphibians there, but nothing like this.

The sanctuary is located in Athens, Michigan, south of Battle Creek.

Critchlow Animal Sanctuary
Critchlow Animal Sanctuary
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The Sanctuary was a dream of David Critchlow who wanted to create an Alligator Sanctuary that will become an attraction for reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, and is also a safe haven for domesticated reptiles, Michigan.org reported.

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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Critchlow said his is a place for all reptiles and amphibians to find proper care needed to live out their lives safely and securely. Many of the residents in the Sanctuary have come from a variety of places for a variety of reasons all needing good homes.

He wanted his Alligator Sanctuary to become an attraction for reptile and amphibian enthusiasts.

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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The goal of the Sanctuary is to continue to create a hands-on and up-close opportunity for people to observe the animals in a semi-natural environment, as well as provide a safe, clean and protected area for all the animals as well as visitors.

But the sanctuary isn't just all about alligators. There are plenty of other amphibians and reptiles to get up-close and personal with.

SNAKES

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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TURTLES

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary/Facebook
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and so much more.

The Zoo is now open to the public daily from 11am to 4pm.

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