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Problem croc caught after stalking boats, fishos at Saunders Beach

A massive ‘problem’ croc caught stalking fishers and boats at Saunders Beach, north of Townsville, has been captured by wildlife officers. See the pics here.

Crocs feeling extra snappy

A massive “problem” croc caught stalking fishers and boats at Saunders Beach, north of Townsville, has been captured by wildlife officers.

A 3.2-metre male crocodile was captured in a baited trap placed in Althaus Creek and removed on Thursday, September 8.

Wildlife officers witnessed the “problem” croc displaying dangerous behaviour after undertaking a day and night-time site assessments at Althaus Creek.

A croc was removed from a trap at Althaus Creek landing, north of Townsville. Picture: Department of Environment and Science
A croc was removed from a trap at Althaus Creek landing, north of Townsville. Picture: Department of Environment and Science

They observed the saltie boldly swimming near moored boats and a boat ramp, and were advised by local fishers that it had also been coming close to people fishing in the creek.

A croc was removed from a trap at Althaus Creek landing, north of Townsville. Picture: Department of Environment and Science
A croc was removed from a trap at Althaus Creek landing, north of Townsville. Picture: Department of Environment and Science

The croc was removed as a matter of public safety under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan Althaus Creek lies within Zone E (General Management zone).

It’s now being held at a secure Department of Environment and Science facility in Townsville while waiting to be rehomed into a crocodile farm or zoo.

Crocodile sightings in Queensland should be reported to DES as soon as possible by using the QWildlife app or by using the sighting report online, or by calling 1300 130 372.

Originally published as Problem croc caught after stalking boats, fishos at Saunders Beach

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/townsville/problem-croc-caught-after-stalking-boats-fishos-at-saunders-beach/news-story/0ee8a81c0a303ed5cc8c5e904da3c52f