Problem crocodiles targeted for removal from Rockhampton, Mackay
Rangers are targeting two rogue reptiles responsible for spooking locals around Central and North Queensland waterways amid a spate of attacks in other parts of the state. PHOTOS, VIDEO.
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Wildlife officers have set traps for two “problem” crocodiles in central and northern Queensland waters, amid concerns the reptiles present a danger to the community.
A large crocodile spotted in a section of the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, which is popular for water sports and another which has made itself at home near a golf course in Mackay, will both be removed by the Department of Environment and Science.
While there have been no recent attacks in these two areas, the trapping comes amid a spate of other crocodile attacks in Far North Queensland, including one where a man was forced to pry open the jaws of a croc to free himself, after it grabbed him while he was snorkelling near Cape Grenville.
Officers from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services have set traps to capture the Rockhampton and Mackay reptiles.
A floating trap was set in the Fitzroy River in the Pink Lily area on Tuesday, after officers confirmed the presence of a crocodile larger than two metres, about 10km upstream from the barrage.
This is believed to be the crocodile which forced the recent cancellation of a rowing regatta.
Senior wildlife officer Josh Morris described the reptile as ‘large’.
“It is a reminder that Rockhampton is croc country and there is a population of crocodiles in the Fitzroy River, above and below the barrage,” he said.
“In response to crocodile sighting reports, wildlife officers conducted multiple, comprehensive spotlight surveys of the Fitzroy River above the barrage in April and May.
“We surveyed 20 kilometres of the river during those surveys and confirmed the presence of a number of crocodiles, mostly less than 2 metres in size.
“During the last two surveys, we confirmed the presence of a crocodile greater than 2 metres in size.”
The area around Pink Lily is regularly used for recreational water skiing, rowing and paddling and is mapped under Zone C on the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
In Zone C, any crocodiles confirmed to be present that are two metres or larger are targeted for removal.
“If this crocodile is removed from the wild, people still have to Be Crocwise as the Fitzroy River is typical habitat for crocodiles and they will continue to be present in the area,” Mr Morris said.
“In 2023, wildlife officers have investigated 32 crocodile sighting reports in the Rockhampton region, with 15 crocodiles reported above the barrage.
“Entering the water in croc country is a choice. You are responsible for your own safety.”
Mr Morris advised people to stay away from the Pink Lily area while the trap was deployed.
“This will give us the best chance at capturing the crocodile, and it is an offence to interfere with a crocodile trap,” he said.
“People in the Rockhampton area are urged to report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner, and wildlife officers investigate every sighting report.”
Further north, a crocodile has also been targeted for removal from a privately owned area in the Mackay suburb of Andergrove.
Wildlife officers from DES have set a trap and are doing regular inspections at the Wetland Walkabout facility, a former wedding venue behind the Melaleuca Golf Course off Keeleys Road, to capture a two metre crocodile.
The site is also in Zone C of the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, with the reptile targeted due to its size and location.
When captured, the crocodiles will be sent to a farm or zoo.
Rockhampton and Mackay are both known crocodile territories and members of the public are reminded to always be Crocwise.
Crocodile sightings can be reported via the QWildlife app, the DES website or by calling 1300 130 372.
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