HAVE a merry Christmas and a snappy new year – surely the strangest seasonal Santa of them all is setting up home in Florida, ready to meet and greet the kids.

Note that’s greet, not eat. Because Gator Claus is coming to town next month to see who’s naughty and who’s nice at alligator attraction Gatorland in Orlando.

The park’s fourth annual Holiday Ho, Ho,Ho-down runs on December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, and 17 with a scaly cast of characters also including scary Krampus Croc and Skunk Ape.

“Capture the essence of a distinctively Floridian holiday by snapping a photo with Gator Claus aboard his swamp-worthy sleigh,” say park chiefs. “Meet the mischievous Krampus Croc, and sing along with the Florida Skunk Ape as he performs his favorite Cryptid carols.”

Gatorland is on Highway 441 just North of the Orlando-Kissimmee line if you’re interested. The park insists it preserves and educates but has attracted criticism from animal rights campaigners.

Never smile at a crocodile…