The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) crocodile management team yesterday captured and removed the first saltwater crocodile for 2017.
Tommy Nichols, Chief Wildlife Ranger, PWCNT, said a 2.4 metre saltwater crocodile had been caught overnight in a trap downstream in Berry Springs and has since been removed.
“We picked up a healthy sized saltwater crocodile that was caught in one of the three permanent traps located in Berry Springs and we will continue to monitor the area.”
The PWCNT urges all Territory residents to stay out of rivers, creeks and causeway crossings.
“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.
“Saltwater crocodiles are common in the Top End and can inhabit any waterways including freshwater systems, billabongs and low areas subject to flooding.
“Saltwater crocodiles generally spend the wet season mating and then nesting; males are more mobile and the species are far more territorial at this time.
“With increasing rain fall and water levels we all need to be extra vigilant and pay regard to the Be Crocwise safety messaging.
“Keep in mind crocodiles are ambush predators; they will see you long before you will see them,” said Mr Nichols.
Berry Springs Nature Park is closed for swimming but open for visitation.
The Northern Territory Be Crocwise strategy can be viewed online at www.becrocwise.nt.gov.au
To report saltwater crocodile sightings in the Darwin region phone 0419 822 859 or in the Katherine region phone 0407 958 405.
For up-to-date information regarding access to parks and reserves administered by the Parks and Wildlife Commission visit http://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves
Related files PWCNT Crocodile Management Wildlife Ranger Ian Hunt and Berry Springs Park Ranger Sam McKenzie (long pants)
Media interviews PWCNT Crocodile Management Chief Ranger: Tom Nichols on 0419 822 859
Media contact Department of Tourism and Culture – Parks and Wildlife I Media Manager: 0476 844 832
