Innisfail Johnstone River 3.9m crocodile removed using floating baited trap
A large saltwater crocodile has been removed from a popular fishing area and well-known habitat in the Cassowary Coast but authorities warn a “risk of attack” remains.
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A large saltwater crocodile has been removed from a popular fishing area and well-known habitat in the Cassowary Coast but authorities warn a “risk of attack” remains.
Innisfail resident Donna Griggs said she went for a drive on Saturday morning and came across some excitement down the boat ramp at Innisfail’s Esplanade.
There, Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation officers had captured a 3.9m saltwater crocodile which had entered a removal zone, of the Johnstone River.
A DETSI spokeswoman said wildlife officers had set and baited a floating trap for the animal on Tuesday, with the animal entering the trap on Saturday when it was removed.
“Wildlife officers continually monitor crocodiles in the broader Innisfail area and will investigate every crocodile sighting report received,” the spokeswoman said.
“All estuarine crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
“This crocodile will be placed at a crocodile farm or zoo.”
The spokeswoman thanked members of the public for taking the time to report the crocodile to the department.
“We want people to report all crocodile sightings as soon as possible after they observe the animal, as this gives wildlife officers important information about the animal’s location behaviour to help inform how the animal should be managed,” the spokeswoman said.
“Removing this animal does not remove the risks of an attack in that section of the Johnstone River, and people should expect crocodiles in all local waterways, even if there are no warning signs there.”
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Originally published as Innisfail Johnstone River 3.9m crocodile removed using floating baited trap
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