Reptiles stolen from an Irwin Education Facility

[Katie]

SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) -- More than 50 reptiles, including a crocodile, were stolen from an Australian animal education center established to continue the work of wildlife crusader Steve Irwin.

The haul from the Wildlife Wonderland near Melbourne, included a 60-centimeter (2 feet) freshwater crocodile, two pythons and three bearded dragons, all requiring an owner's licence, the center's owner said.

Also reported stolen were the center's entire stock of 47 blue-tongue lizards.

"These animals were used to educate children and to keep Steve Irwin's legacy alive. I feel sick over this," the center's proprietor Darren Tilley told Reuters.

He said the animals were discovered missing on Sunday morning, suggesting a late-night or early morning break in.

"We don't know how they transported all these animals. I'm very concerned, these reptiles need special care, lighting and food."Tilley said.

The center was opened days after Steve Irwin, known worldwide by his television show moniker, the Crocodile Hunter, was fatally pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef on September 4 last year.

Police spokeswoman Kathy Stone said the reptiles could be sold on the black market to collectors.

"We're not sure at this stage, there are no leads," Stone said.

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