Two large crocodiles have been removed from North Queensland waterways, with one evading capture for almost a month.
An estimated 3.9-metre crocodile was captured in a trap on Sunday, on the banks of a private property on the Herbert River at Cordelia.
The crocodile had reportedly been lingering around the private property and stalking domestic and farm animals.
Meantime an estimated 3-metre crocodile was caught in a trap in the Ross River in Townsville.
The animals will be placed in crocodile farms or zoos.
Senior Wildlife Officer Tony Frisby says the Herbert River crocodile had been declared a dangerous animal.
“Thankfully the property owner reported the animal to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.
“Wildlife officers investigate every sighting report, and when we observed the behaviour of the crocodile, we targeted it for removal from the wild.
“We tried an in-river floating trap but due to the amount of rainfall and elevated river levels, we had to install a gated trap, which is a trap that rests on the riverbank.
“On 24 March 2024, our remote camera confirmed the crocodile had entered the gated trap.
“The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service would like to thank the property owner for reporting the crocodile and providing access to the riverbank.
“The crocodile on the Ross River had also been hanging around the weir for several weeks and it was targeted for removal from the wild due to its behaviour and risk it posed to public safety.
“People must understand that the removal of these crocodiles does not make the Herbert River or the Ross River safer.
“The Townsville region is Croc Country, and people should by Crocwise by making sensible choices around waterways and avoiding complacency.
“People need to be aware that they are responsible for their own safety in Croc Country, and should expect crocodiles in all waterways, even if there are no signs there.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report all crocodile sightings to DESI as soon as possible, through the QWildlife app, via the DESI website or by calling 1300 130 372.
