This is terrifying moment a furious crocodile bites a trainer's arm in front of dozens of horrified spectators at a show.

The reptile handler, named Tao, 45, was performing the stunt at the Phokkathara zoo in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, in front of around 100 people. As the bandana-wearing zoo-keeper reached inside the animal's jaws, he began pushing deeper down the croc's throat - looking at the audience and telling the announcer to stop the music. But the reptile struck back - suddenly chomping down and clamping its teeth around Tao's forearm before shaking him violently from side to side.

The performer was heard letting out an agonising howl before freeing himself and staggering away with blood dripping on the wet tiles. The astonishing scene was captured by Khun Phusawit, 35, who had been visiting the Phokkathara Crocodile Farm and zoo with wife Nok and their two children.

Phusawit said: ''The show was very good until that happened. I hope that the man is OK and he gets better soon. Everybody was shocked when it happened. The kids were a little bit scared.I've watched the clip back many times to see how it happened and the crocodile seems to not like having the hand in his mouth.''

The owner of the crocodile park, Dong Wittawat, said: ''The performer is fine. The crocodile does not have a name. Tao was was treated at the farm with bandaging. He loves crocodiles and he will be working again soon in the next two weeks.''