Croc Consultation

About

About Croc Springs

Croc Springs was built on a passion for wildlife, conservation, and education.

Our mission is to create meaningful connections between people and animals through immersive, hands-on experiences and innovative installations.

With a focus on crocodilians and exotic wildlife, we aim to inspire respect, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

  • 5% of proceeds go to conservation
  • All animals are captive bred or rescued
  • No wild-caught or field-collected animals

Our mission is to pass on a love for wildlife to the next generation, eliminate fear, and inspire conservation

Meet the Staff

Behind every Croc Springs experience is a team dedicated to wildlife, education, and creating unforgettable moments.

Our work is built on passion, hands-on experience, and a commitment to both animal care andpublic safety.

Andrew Ayala

Director of Animal Care, Training & Welfare

Andrew has been passionate about wildlife and animal care since childhood, with a strong focus on crocodilians, venomous reptiles, and animal behavior. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in animal handling, training, and husbandry, he is widely recognized for his expertise in herpetology, capture and restraint, and advanced animal training.He has traveled throughout Australia, Southeast Asia, and Central America studying and working with reptiles in the field, gaining extensive experience with some of the world’s most unique and challenging species.

As Director of Animal Care, Training & Welfare for Croc Springs, Andrew oversees animal training, handling protocols, and welfare standards while helping people better understand and respect misunderstood wildlife through safe, professional, and highly engaging educational experiences.

 
 
 

Mason Hillman

Director of Operations & Education

Mason Hillman is an educator and wildlife biologist with a lifelong passion for reptiles, crocodilians, raptors, and conservation. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and has over five years of hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation, exotic animal care, veterinary settings, and public education across Florida. His background includes working with crocodilians, venomous reptiles, native wildlife, and birds of prey through zoological, rehabilitation, and educational programs.

As Director of Education for Croc Springs, Mason focuses on creating engaging, high-impact wildlife experiences that strengthen the connection between people and animals while promoting conservation, respect, and responsible wildlife education. 

Peter Gamble

Director of Corporate Partnerships & Exhibits

Peter brings over 13 years of professional zookeeping experience specializing in herpetology, exotic animal care, and wildlife education. Throughout his career, he has worked at major Florida zoological and wildlife facilities, gaining extensive experience with reptiles, crocodilians, and native wildlife in large-scale educational settings. In addition to his work with reptiles, Peter is also an experienced beekeeper.

As Director of Corporate Partnerships & Exhibits for Croc Springs, he focuses on building immersive, high-quality wildlife experiences for hotels, resorts, corporate events, and educational exhibits, ensuring every interaction is both impactful and educational.