Discarded fish scraps attract three metre croc to popular fishing spot

A three metre crocodile lingering at a popular Cassowary Coast boat ramp has been spotted eating discarded fish frames, prompting warnings from officials.

Fish frames found at Maria Creek boat ramp on the Cassowary Coast have attracted a three metre croc to the area. Picture: Chris Bolton Fishing

A three metre crocodile lingering at a popular Cassowary Coast boat ramp has been spotted eating discarded fish frames, prompting warnings from officials.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation have installed three recent crocodile sighting warnings at Maria Creek boat ramp in Kurrimine Beach after the crocodile was reported to officials.

DESI director of northern wildlife operations Lindsay Delzoppo said fishers who throw their bait and fish frames into the waterways were putting themselves and others at risk.

“Many fishers across Queensland clean their catch at boat ramps and throw the heads and frames away at the water’s edge, thinking they are doing the right thing by ‘recycling’, but this should never be done in croc country,” Mr Delzoppo said.

Fish frames found at Maria Creek boat ramp on the Cassowary Coast have attracted a three metre croc to the area. Picture: Department of Environment, Science and Innovation

“People should dispose of fish frames and unwanted bait away from the water, because crocodiles have an amazing sense of smell and will be attracted to come along for a feed.

“We’re not sure if fishers are leaving the fish frames behind deliberately, but this foolish behaviour at the Maria Creek boat ramp needs to stop.”

Mr Delzoppo added the act was not only dangerous but could interfere with the animal’s instincts.

“Crocodiles are an apex predator and have been feeding themselves for millions of years and don’t need to be inadvertently or deliberately fed at boat ramps.

“This can change their natural behaviour and they may start to hang around waiting for another meal.”

Mr Delzoppo urged Cassowary Coast anglers to be Crocwise when out on the water and while they clean up.

Fish frames found at Maria Creek boat ramp on the Cassowary Coast have attracted a three metre croc to the area. Picture: Department of Environment, Science and Innovation

“Remember, everyone is responsible for their own safety in Croc Country, and discarding fish frames and bait at boat ramps is extremely unsafe.”

Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, Maria Creek boat ramp is classed as Zone E meaning crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour are targeted for removal by DESI officers.

The department recommended all waterways in the Cassowary region be treated as Croc Country, asking residents and visitors to obey warning signs, stay away from crocodile traps and stay back from the water’s edge when fishing or camping.

Children and pets should also be supervised at all times according to the Crocwise guidelines.

Anyone who spots a crocodile in Far North Queensland waters should report the sighting to DESI via the QWildlife app, DESI website or on 1300 130 372.

Originally published as Discarded fish scraps attract three metre croc to popular fishing spot