The large male croc has been transported to the DES holding facility in Townsville.
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) have captured and removed a 3.8 metre estuarine crocodile from the Herbert River at Cordelia, near Ingham, North Queensland.
On 4 February 2022, DES received a report of a large crocodile in the area that had become increasingly aggressive and had approached people at the riverbank at least twice within the previous month.
Following an assessment of the report, DES declared the animal a problem crocodile that same day and set a baited trap in the river.
The section of the Herbert River where the crocodile was sighted is in Zone E (general management zone) under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, which means all declared problem crocodiles are targeted for removal.
On Saturday, February 12, the 3.8 metre male crocodile was captured and transported to a DES holding facility in Townsville.
The croc appears to be in good health and will be made available for placement at a registered crocodile farm or zoo.
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 through 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
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water’s edge, at camp sites or boat ramps
- Never feed, provoke or harass crocs
- 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 when 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
- 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
