Episode: "False Eye"
Location: Singapore Zoological Gardens
Veterinarian: Dr. Chris Furley

The Singapore Zoo is home to some unusually big false gharials — an endangered species of crocodilian. When the zoo decides to upgrade its crocodilian facility, the false gharials have to be relocated to new enclosures.

To help with the relocation, the Singapore Zoo calls in our host, Steve Irwin, and Australia Zoo's Crocodile Rescue Unit. It's Steve's job to help relocate the zoo's biggest false gharial — a 15 footer — as well as assist in its first ever vet checkup.

The Australia Zoo crocodile specialists include Brian Coulter and Senior Veterinarian Dr. Jon Hanger.

To secure the false gharial, Steve uses a technique perfected on Australian saltwater crocodiles — a top jaw rope pulled tight. A second jaw rope is attached for safety and the false gharial is pulled from the water using the brute strength of the Singapore Zoo staff. Then Steve and Brian jump the animal and secure its jaws.

Once the false gharial is secured, Singapore Zoo's head vet Dr. Chris Furley gives it a thorough physical and general checkup.

Various measurements and blood samples are taken, and the animal is given a general condition check. Then it's pulled into a wooden crate and relocated into a bigger enclosure — a deep moat surrounding an island of primates.

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