Following a thorough investigation by wildlife officers, the freshwater crocodile at Boodjamulla National Park on 15 May 2022 will not be removed from the wild.
Wildlife officers assessed the crocodile’s behaviour over several days and nights and found the animal demonstrated no signs of aggressive behaviour. It was also very wary of people and moved away when approached.
The crocodile has not been observed in the area since 19 May 2022.
The investigation found that the freshwater crocodile’s behaviour had been defensive and related specifically to the conditions at the rock pool in which the incident occurred.
During the investigation, wildlife officers observed a pile of debris that had been deposited across the back of the rock pool by recent flooding that would have prevented the crocodile leaving the pool when the man entered.
Freshwater crocodiles may show defensive behaviour if they feel cornered or threatened, which is what is believed to have happened during the incident on 15 May.
Rangers from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will clear the debris from the back of the rock pool to allow freshwater crocodiles to freely exit the pool in response to any future encounters with humans.
Additional signage outlining the risks associated with interactions with freshwater crocodiles will be installed in the area.
People who visit Boodjamulla National Park are advised that there is a small local population of freshwater crocodiles present in the gorge.
The animal involved in the incident may still be in the area but has been assessed as posing no greater threat than any other freshwater crocodile in the gorge.
Visitors to the park are advised to call 1300 130 372 if they are concerned about the behaviour of any freshwater crocodiles they encounter.
Freshwater crocodiles are smaller and less aggressive than estuarine crocodiles. They usually flee at the first sight of people approaching, but may act defensively if they feel cornered or threatened.
