A massive crocodile was captured in north Queensland just a day after wildlife officers set a trap in the area. However, it was revealed that the three-meter reptile caught at Cardwell Marina north of Townsville was not the “problem crocodile” they were targeting.
The wildlife officers had set up a baited floating trap in an attempt to capture a large crocodile that had been displaying aggressive behavior around local boats and had reportedly attacked a dog at the marina.
According to a statement from the Department of Environment, Science, and Innovation, the targeted animal had been declared a problem crocodile after incidents of lunging at a resident of a houseboat and circling the vessel in April.
Although the rangers found success in capturing a three-meter crocodile the next day, they realized that it was not the specific animal they were aiming for. The department mentioned that they would reset the trap to catch the targeted crocodile shortly.
Wildlife officers suspect that baited crab pots may have attracted the crocodiles to the marina. Lindsay Delzoppo from the department noted the absence of turtles and limited fish in the marina, suggesting that other attractants, such as baited crab pots, might have drawn the crocodiles in.
The department urged locals to properly dispose of unwanted bait and fish, as there is still a large crocodile at large in the area. Delzoppo emphasized that crocodiles are drawn to areas with food sources and can become aggressive if they get accustomed to free food.
The captured three-meter crocodile will be temporarily held before being relocated to a farm or zoo. This capture follows the removal of a 2.5-meter crocodile in the Rockhampton region earlier in the week.
Delzoppo reminded people to take responsibility for their safety in areas known for crocodile presence and advised against feeding them or providing easy access to food. He emphasized that crocodiles have been able to find their own food for millions of years.
