The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) crocodile management team has removed 290 estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles from Northern Territory waterways as part of its crocodile management program.
“Slightly more than last year’s total of 287, which was a significant increase on the 2013 tally of 226. The record of 318 in 2012 still stands,” said PWCNT wildlife ranger Tom Nichols.
“Today two crocodiles, measuring 1.4 and 1.6 metres, were removed from the Shoal Bay area.
“We want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season, so if you and your family members are on or near the water please remember to BE CROCWISE.
“This means behaving responsibly in and around Territory waters at all times, heeding all safety signs and not putting yourself or others at risk of crocodile attack.
“Unfortunately, the BE CROCWISE message isn’t getting through to some people who are still partaking in risky behaviour. Remember that a crocodile will see you before you see them.
“Saltwater crocodiles were removed from many parts of the Territory this year including Darwin Harbour, the northern suburbs as well as tidal creeks and inlets, meaning they could be anywhere at any time.
“Techniques used to remove crocodiles from Top End waters included the use of traps and custom fitted croc boats that include specifically fitted harpoon racks, crocodile slide, self-draining deck and side rails.”
The largest croc captured in 2015 was removed from the Daly River on March 13 and measures in at 4.38m.
Of the 290 saltwater crocodiles captured this year in the Northern Territory, 252 were removed from the Darwin area, including a 4.25m long male at Little Howard River on 11 February.
Estuarine crocodiles are common in the Top End and can inhabit any waterways including freshwater systems, billabongs and low areas subject to flooding.
The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT urges the public to BE CROCWISE and remember that croc danger is real so a lure is not worth your life. For more information go to www.nt.gov.au/becrocwise
To report estuarine (saltwater) crocodile sightings in the Darwin region phone 0419 822 859 or in the Katherine region phone 0407 958 405.
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Media Note – for more information contact Tom Nichols on 0419 822 859.
