A hunt was under way near the popular Thai beach resort of Pattaya after at least 20 crocodiles escaped from a flooded farm, according to reports.

The Million Years Stone Park, which is 100 kilometres (62 miles) southeast of Bangkok, houses salt water crocodiles as well as smaller fresh water crocodiles and other exotic animals.

The crocodiles are thought to have escaped after heavy rains and flooding resulted in a mudslide. It was not known exactly how many reptiles escaped, but Farm workers and locals joined the search.

22 crocodiles averaging 4 – 5 metres in length have been recaptured so far.

Thailand’s central region experiences flooding at this time of year due to seasonal rain.