Preliminary studies of chemical immobilization of captive juvenile estuarine (Crocodylus porosus) and Australian freshwater (C. johnstoni) crocodiles with medetomidine and reversal with atipamezole

Medetomidine administered in the thoracic limb of captive estuarine and Australian freshwater crocodiles, ranging from 3 to 12.8 kg, provides a predictable onset and duration of immobilization sufficient for physical examination, sample collection, short minor procedures and translocation of the animals. Atipamezole administered in the thoracic limb results in complete reversal of the effects of medetomidine in the estuarine crocodile and a rapid return to normal behaviour.