Crocodiles spotted between Zilzie, Kinka and Byfield National Park

Rangers are reporting a big jump in the number of crocodile sightings at Central Queensland beaches and national parks as randy reptiles move around looking for a mate. PHOTOS.

Wildlife officers received six reported crocodile sightings on the Capricorn Coast on the weekend, with a member of the public finding an indent on Tanby Beach. Photos: DES

As the weather warms up crocodiles are well and truly on the move with numerous sightings on the Capricorn Coast.

Across the weekend, wildlife officers from the Department of Wildlife and Science received six sighting reports of a crocodile moving along the Capricorn Coast between Zilzie and Kinka Beach.

The sightings come nearly two months since a large ‘problem’ crocodile was captured and removed from the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton.

Senior Wildlife Officer Joshua Morris said the sightings were believed to be the same animal, with a member of the public able to measure a 2.4m crocodile indent on the northern end of Tanby Beach.

Wildlife officers received six reported crocodile sightings on the Capricorn Coast on the weekend, with a member of the public finding an indent on Tanby Beach. Photos: DES

“Wildlife officers have investigated each report, and people should be aware that as the weather warms up, there will likely be an increase in crocodile activity as male crocodiles will be on the move to find a mate or find new territory,” he said.

“The crocodile would’ve been taking a rest before returning to the water and we believe it is moving between river or creek systems.

Wildlife officers received six reported crocodile sightings on the Capricorn Coast on the weekend, with a member of the public finding an indent on Tanby Beach. Photos: DES

“We have not had another report about this crocodile since Sunday morning, and we’re asking people along the Capricorn Coast to make Crocwise choices near the water.”

Officers are also investigating a sighting of a crocodile near Port Alma.

On Wednesday officers also received reports about a large crocodile basking on the bank of Water Park Creek near Byfield National Park.

Mr Morris said wildlife officers spotted the reptile during their vessel-based investigation.

Wildlife officers received six reported crocodile sightings on the Capricorn Coast on the weekend, with a member of the public finding an indent on Tanby Beach. Photos: DES

“Upon seeing us, the crocodile did not display any dangerous behaviour. It slid into the water and did not reappear,” he said.

Mr Morris encouraged anyone who sees a crocodile to report the sightings to DES.

“Crocodiles are highly mobile and can move long distances but the animal could still be transitioning along the Capricorn Coast,” he said.

“We have provided Crocwise information to the public along the coast. Local Surf Life Saving Queensland clubs have also been made aware of the sighting and are supporting DES by monitoring beaches and posting warning to beach goers.”

All crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES through the QWildlife app, via the DES website or by calling 1300 130 372.