Group of seven fined for deliberately feeding Proserpine River crocodiles
The group of seven were asking for trouble dangling chicken meat in an area notorious for its large population of saltwater crocodiles.
Whitsunday
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Seven “foolish” people caught deliberately feeding crocodiles on the Proserpine River in April 2021 have been fined more than $2000.
Department of Environment and Science wildlife officers installing new crocodile warning signs on the banks of the river on April 15 busted the group after other members of the public reported them.
Northern Wildlife Operations director Lindsay Delzoppo said the wildlife officers observed the group for a brief period of time and noticed a large crocodile near the bank pulling on a rope.
“After observing chicken meat attached to the end of the ropes and boxes of raw chicken meat beside the group and in a parked car, wildlife officers directed the ropes to be removed from the river,” Mr Delzoppo said.
“The ropes and boxes of chickens were then seized as evidence, all members of the group were interviewed and directed to leave the area.”
The seven people were subsequently issued $400 Penalty Infringement Notices for deliberately feeding a crocodile in the wild.
One of the group members initially elected to contest their fine in court and the matter was resolved in December 2021 when the fine was paid.
A DES statement described the behaviour as “foolish”, reminding the community deliberately feeding crocodiles could put lives at risk.
Mr Delzoppo said it was an offence under the Nature Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020 to feed a native animal in the wild if the animal was dangerous or venomous, or capable of injuring a person.
“Estuarine crocodiles, regardless of their size, clearly fall into that category,” he said.
“The deliberate feeding of crocodiles is extremely dangerous, as it can lead to the animals learning to associate people with food.
“These crocodiles may then start to approach other people for food or hang around areas such as boat ramps waiting for their next easy meal.
“The deliberate feeding of crocodiles can place future visitors to the riverbank at that location at an increased risk of a crocodile attack.”
The maximum penalty for deliberately feeding crocodiles is $5222, and anyone with information about the deliberate feeding of crocodiles is encouraged to report it to the Department by phoning 1300 130 372.
All crocodile sightings can be reported by using the free QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372.
DES investigates all reports it receives.
People in croc country are reminded to always be Crocwise.
In particular:
– Expect crocodiles in all central, 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 do not wade in to retrieve a lure
– Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
– Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water’s edge, at campsites or at boat ramps
– Never provoke, harass or feed crocodiles
– Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.
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