The 2.5m crocodile was removed from the wild after approaching boats for food.
A highly habituated crocodile that was showing no fear of people and approaching boats for food has been removed from the wild near Coorooman Creek in the Rockhampton region.
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation set and baited a floating trap for the crocodile on Wednesday 1 May 2024, and the estimated 2.5m animal was successfully captured and removed within a week.
Wildlife officer Alexander Peters said the Coorooman Creek crocodile was declared a dangerous animal after lingering around boat ramps in the area for several months and closely approaching boats.
“On 28 April 2024, we investigated the crocodile’s behaviour after a sighting report was made to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation,” Mr Peters said.
“The crocodile exhibited concerning behaviour by deliberately approaching our vessel during a spotlight search and showing no fear, which is an indication that it had been fed on previous occasions and had become habituated.
“Based on the crocodile’s habituated behaviour, it was declared a dangerous crocodile and targeted for removal from the wild.
“It is extremely disappointing that we had to remove the crocodile from the wild due to the actions of people, and I’d like to remind people there are significant penalties for deliberately feeding or interacting with crocodiles.
“The crocodile is being temporarily housed in the department’s holding pond while awaiting placement at a farm or zoo.”
Mr Peters said the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service would like to thank members of the public for reporting the crocodile to the department.
“We want people to report all crocodile sightings in the greater Rockhampton area, as they help give wildlife officers a location and information about the animal’s behaviour,” he said.
“We investigate every sighting report, and during our investigations in the Coorooman Creek, we have observed other crocodiles in the area.
“Removing this 2.5 metre animal does not remove the risks, and people should expect crocodiles in all local waterways, even if there are no signs there.
“People need to be aware that they are responsible for their own safety in Croc Country and should be Crocwise by making sensible choices around waterways and avoiding complacency.”
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.
Wildlife officers investigate every sighting report, and estuarine crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
Crocwise tips for people in Croc Country:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
- Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
- Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
- Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
- The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
- Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
- Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, camp sites or boat ramps
- Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
