Emergency services raced to Johnsons of Old Hurst, near Huntingdon, and a critical incident was declared by police on June 18.
He was rescued from the pit by staff members, including the zoo’s owners Andy and Tracey Johnson, who are said to have leapt into the enclosure.
The toddler received treatment at the scene before being rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
It has since been revealed he was attacked by one of the reptiles when he ended up in the enclosure on June 18.
The boy remains in a stable condition.
In a statement issued on Thursday (July 2), Johnsons of Old Hurst described the incident as “one of the most distressing” in its history.
Police declared a critical incident after the toddler suffered serious injuries (Image: Newsquest)
A spokesperson said: “We were alerted to reports that a child had allegedly been thrown into our of crocodile enclosures in the Tropical House.
“Everyone who was on site that day acted with incredible speed and determination. Within minutes of the first radio call, the child had been rescued from the enclosure and was receiving first aid.
“The emergency services arrived very quickly, supported by the MAGPAS Air Ambulance, and we cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, compassion and dedication in such difficult circumstances.
“We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to the visitors who stepped forward to help, including off-duty paramedics and police officers whose calm and immediate actions made a real difference.”
They added: “We are immensely proud of our own staff, who responded without hesitation and did everything they could to help and support the child until the emergency services took over.
“The kindness we have received from our local community and from people across the country has been overwhelming.
“Every message of support, every kind word and every expression of concern has meant a great deal to our family and our team during an incredibly difficult time. Thank you for standing with us.
“Above all, our thoughts remain with the young boy and his family. We continue to hope and pray for his speedy recovery and ask that they are given the privacy, compassion and support they need at this time.”
A 30-year-old from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder shortly after the incident (Image: Joe Giddens/PA)
A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder shortly after the incident.
The suspect, believed to have learning difficulties, has since been released on bail until September 18.
The force confirmed the man, who is not known to the victim, has been assessed as “not being fit for interview”.
Detectives are now reviewing CCTV at the premises in a bid to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
A fundraising page set up to pay for the toddler’s treatment and recovery has raised more than £22,000 days after it was first launched.
More than £22,000 has been raised for the injured toddler (Image: Joe Giddens/PA)
According to the organiser, any funds remaining after meeting the family’s needs will be donated to charities and organisations within the Addenbrooke’s Trust.
In a statement released on Wednesday (July 1), the victim’s family said: “We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure.
“We are truly grateful for the public support and well-wishes we have received, as well as to everyone who has been directly involved in our son’s care and recovery in hospital.
“Our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time.”
It has since been revealed no safety concerns were indicated regarding the zoo’s conditions at the time of the incident.
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