A crocodile hunter has revealed his most terrifying encounters – including feeding them with his bare hands.
Jason Vargas Aguero first started to develop a special interest in reptiles at the young age of 10, finding himself in awe of the powerful creatures.
The now 45-year-old, who likes to compare himself to the late Steve Irwin, has had many near-misses with dangerous crocs over the years.
He runs his own tour company and shares his adventures on TikTok, (@jasoncrocodiletours506), where one video recently rapped 15.8 million views.
“I’ve been injured a couple of times, including my hands when I’ve hand-fed them,” Jason, born in Tarcoles, told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“I have had to go to a clinic immediately and I have been afraid at times.
“But I have also always trained myself to be very focused in times like those and to treat them with respect.
“I like to compare myself to Steve Irwin.”
Jason, who has appeared on Animal Planet, The Discovery Channel, National Geographic and BBC London, runs Jason Crocodile Tours in Costa Rica.
He often likes to name the crocs he comes across after famous people and politicians.
Jason said: “We have Osama, Brad Pitt, Monica Lewinsky and Hilary Clinton.
“As well as Tornado and many more.”
Fans are often left shocked by just how close he gets to the animals.
In one TikTok, he reveals the terrifying moment a tour group spot the reptile inches away from the boat.
In the video, the reptile can be seen backing himself off a patch of sand and slowly stepping into the water behind.
Onlookers on the boat watch on as the reptile sinks into the water, leaving only his eyes visible.
The post has over 469,700 likes, as well as over 900 comments from followers.
Kiri wrote: “I can just FEEL how much they want to reach out and pet it.”
Kwenza said: “When I see crocodile I feel death.”
Nick commented: “The boat looks very safe,” followed by a shocked face emoji.
Alle added: “Suddenly it starts running.”
Ana said: “TOO DAMN CLOSE.”
Keisha commented: “He’s like come on in, the water’s fine…”
“It will end in tears one day,” wrote one follower.
“Too close that’s crazy,” said someone else.
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