Crocodile warning sign at Redbank Boat Ramp Cairns
Crocodile captured at Redbank Boat Ramp Cairns
The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is reminding fishers to properly dispose of fish frames and bait after a 2.2m crocodile was removed from the wild at Redbank Boat Ramp, south of Cairns.
The animal was declared a ‘problem crocodile’ after wildlife officers conducted a night-time spotlight assessment of the area and observed the animal staying around the boat ramp.
DES wildlife officers set a baited trap near the boat ramp in early September and the animal was captured on Friday 15 October 2021.
The area around the Redbank Boat Ramp is in Zone C (Targeted management zone) under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, in which any crocodile of 2 metres or greater in length is targeted for removal by wildlife officers.
Wildlife officers are concerned the crocodile may have been hanging around the boat ramp because people had been deliberately or inadvertently feeding it discarded fish frames, bait and other scraps.
Discarded fish frames and crab shells were observed in the area during an inspection of the area by wildlife officers.
People should use bins at boat ramps to properly dispose of fish scraps and unwanted bait, or dispose of disused bait and fish carcasses at home.
The regular feeding of crocodiles – even by different people leaving fish scraps at a boat ramp over time – can affect their behaviour and encourage them to stay in area, waiting for their next meal.
People are responsible for their own safety in Croc Country, but the regular feeding of crocodiles can place future visitors at increased risk.
All crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
Members of the public are encouraged to report crocodile sightings as soon as possible, by entering sighting details to the QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372. DES investigates all reports it receives.
People in croc country are reminded to always be Crocwise. In particular:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL north 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’s edge, at camp sites or at boat ramps
- Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
- Report all croc sightings to DES by using the QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372
