Crocodile sighting at Pallarenda Beach being investigated as wildlife officers stress croc safety measures

Following a crocodile sighting at Pallarenda Beach on Thursday morning, wildlife officers are reminding the public to be ‘croc wise” as the weather warms and crocodile mating season begins.

Australian saltwater crocodiles are considered among the most dangerous predators in the world. Picture: File photo

Following a crocodile sighting at Pallarenda on Thursday morning, wildlife officers have warned the public to be ‘croc wise’ as the weather warms and crocodile mating season begins.

Reports of a croc sighting were posted in the Facebook group Everything Townsville, saying a “6-8 foot” croc was spotted near the water’s edge near Pallarenda Beach before it swam out about 50m and resurfaced several times before swimming off towards the Cape.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation confirmed the reported sighting of a “medium-sized crocodile in shallow water” was being investigated, with wildlife officers monitoring for any further reports.

They believe it may have been a crocodile in transit, using the ocean to move between a river or creek.

With the warmer months marking mating season for the animals and the possibility of crocodiles on the move, looking for a mate or trying to find new territory, the department has advised Townsville locals to be safe in croc country.

Members of the public are advised to report all crocodile sightings to DESI as soon as possible either through the QWildlife app, the DESI website or by calling 1300 130 372.

Tips for people in Croc Country to stay safe include:

• Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• 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 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 as far back from the edge of the water as possible
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, camp sites or boat ramps
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

Further information on being Croc wise is available on the Queensland Government website.

Originally published as Crocodile sighting at Pallarenda Beach being investigated as wildlife officers stress croc safety measures