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Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

Athens, MI

$400 and up

Travels up to 300 miles

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Gallery photo 1 of Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

School Assembly

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A snake that we may bring with us

Gallery photo 3 of Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

A tortoise that we may bring with us

Gallery photo 4 of Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

A bearded Dragon that we may bring with us

Gallery photo 5 of Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

Presenter, Bayou Bryce with Kaa, the boa

Overview

🐊 Bring the Swamp to You! ONLY OFFERED IN MICHIGAN!
Looking for a jaw-dropping, hands-on experience for your next school assembly, festival, library program, or special event? Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary offers live reptile shows that are educational, interactive, and wildly unforgettable!

Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary is a reptile rescue specializing in alligators, tortoises, snakes, and more! Our experienced animal handlers deliver safe, fun, and fully licensed presentations for all ages. Whether it’s a classroom, a birthday party, or a senior center, our mission is to inspire curiosity, respect for wildlife, and big smiles—one scale at a time.


Reviews

2 reviews

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Christina R.

Christina R.

October 31, 2025
Verified review

Do Not Hesitate To Book Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary!

Bayou Bryce’s presentation with the animals was extremely well received!

The audience was equally impressed by the animals as they were with Bayou Bryce’s dynamic personality, vast knowledge, and infectious positive energy!

The interactive animal experience Bayou Bryce provided was both fun and educational. The audience enjoyed learning about the animals and seeing them up close.

The attached photos show the exhilaration and joy of the audience more effectively than my words could ever convey!

https://share.icloud.com/photos/0b72ObbPWRD6BVc3JJjIwA2iw

Hired as: Animal Entertainment


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Meredith R.

Meredith R.

July 8, 2025

Best guest speaker Ever!

The Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary is a hidden gem that deserves recognition for the AMAZING services they provide. They have partnered with the INSPIRE Program at Western Michigan University to support educational opportunities for PreK-3 grade teachers, students and their families. In addition, Bryce (the best guest speaker EVER!) has been coming to WMU to present to our elementary science methods courses about what Critchlow can provide for teachers (class field trips, guest speakers, community events, etc.) Not only is he extremely knowledgeable about reptiles/arthropods and conservation efforts, he is also hilarious! It's like a stand-up comedy show mixed with David Attenborough-level information. It is with my utmost respect and admiration that I offer my highest recommendation for the Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary!

Hired as: Reptile Show

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Booking information

Price range: $400 and up

Languages: English

Gig length: 30 - 60 minutes

Insurance: $1,000,000 - Commercial General Liability

What to expect

Right from the start, the presenter captures the audience’s attention with fascinating facts, playful humor, and a deep passion for animal rescue. One by one, they introduce the stars of the show—five unique species of reptiles including tortoises, lizards, snakes, turtles, and of course, alligators.

Each animal has a story: where they came from, why they needed rescuing, and how they found a forever home at the sanctuary. The message is powerful—these aren’t just reptiles, they’re survivors. And your audience gets to meet them face-to-face.

The crowd favorite? The alligator, calmly lifted and shown up close (with all safety measures in place). Eyes light up. Phones come out. Questions start flying.

Throughout the presentation, the energy is high, the crowd is engaged, and learning comes alive. Kids ask questions. Adults snap photos. Everyone walks away a little more curious, a little more respectful of reptiles, and a whole lot more amazed.

About

🐊 Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary – Where Rescued Reptiles Find Forever Homes
Nestled in the heart of Athens, Michigan, Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary (CAS) is a one-of-a-kind reptile rescue facility dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and lifelong housing of unwanted or mistreated reptiles—especially alligators. What began as a personal mission to save one alligator has grown into a sanctuary now home to over 200 reptiles including alligators, tortoises, snakes, lizards, and more.

Our sanctuary provides a safe, educational, and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. We offer hands-on encounters, guided tours, and off-site educational programs throughout the year. Whether you're visiting our sanctuary in person or bringing one of our live reptile shows to your school or event, we strive to inspire curiosity, respect for wildlife, and support for rescue work.

At Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary, we don’t sell animals—we save them. Every tour, presentation, and sponsorship supports our mission to give these misunderstood creatures a second chance at life.

Additional booking notes

If we are to perform outdoors, the temperature range is 65 to 90 degrees. We absolutely must be under shade for the entire event.

Setup requirements

6 or 8 ft Table