"Pocho" is the name given to a crocodile by a Costa Rican named Gilberto Shedden, or "Chito". Chito found Pocho greatly wounded on the shore of the Parismina River in 1989. Pocho was suffering from a gun shot wound in the left eye from a cattle farmer. Chito, having a soft heart for animals, decided to bring this animal to his house. For several months, he stayed by the crocodile's side nursing him back to health. When Pocho was finally strong enough to return to the wild, he refused and insisted on following Chito. From then on, a deep bond was allowed to develop between man and beast.
For more than 20 years, the duo performed together amidst awe-struck crowds in a 100-square-meter artificial lake at Finca Las Tilapia. Chinto could command Pocho to do tricks such as winking, rolling over, and letting Chito put his head in Pocho's massive jaw. Their acts, not surprisingly, drew international attention. A crocodile, often seen as an unforgiving killing machine, is now a man's best friend.
Keeping a crocodile as a pet is no easy feat and Chito had to work with a vet and a biologist to make sure the needs of Pocho are met. Pocho ate a whopping 30 kg of fish and chicken a week.
Unfortunately, on October 11, 2011, Pocho passed away due to natural reasons. An elaborate funeral was held for him as visitors from all over the country came to say their good byes.
Poncho's carcass will be embalmed and placed on display in a museum in Finca Las Tilapia.
When asked whether Chito will train another "Pocho", Chito replied,
"Pocho is Pocho, there is only one. Much of the public and all the people of Siquirres responded to him. There is no more Pocho. He will be the only Pocho there ever was."
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