East Lake-Orient Park is an unincorporated residential area in Hillsborough County, Florida, located within the Tampa Bay area. The population was 22,753 according to the 2010 census, an increase from 5,703 according to the 2000 census following boundary expansion. The area is home to the Florida State Fair.
Croc Encounters was established in January 2005 as a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing unwanted reptiles. While crocodiles have always been the primary focus, they have expanded their protection to include other unwanted reptiles, birds, and mammals. In addition to its role as a sanctuary, it is also an educational facility open to the public for guided tours and events.