DES removed saltwater croc after it rapidly approached their vessel

A saltwater crocodile has been removed from a creek near Innisfail after it displayed “bold” behaviour. Find out more.

A saltwater crocodile has been removed from a creek near Innisfail after it displayed “bold” behaviour towards wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and science (DES), rapidly approaching their vessel.

The 1.7m crocodile was removed from Fishers Creek in a pool above a series of rapids near the Palmerston Highway at Coorumba.

It comes after DES Wildlife officers were notified of a croc sighting on March 16 in the area and carried out a site inspection.

A spokesman from the DES while wildlife officers were undertaking a boat survey of the creek, the crocodile “rapidly approached the vessel.”

“The crocodile’s bold behaviour made it easy for wildlife officers to secure the reptile and bring it to shore,” he said.

DES officers removed a croc from Fishers Creek in a pool above a series of rapids near the Palmerston Highway at Coorumba. Photo: supplied

“Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, Coorumba is located in Zone E (General Management Zone), which means all crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour are targeted for removal.”

Senior wildlife officer Dinouk Perera said wildlife officers also took the opportunity to share important “crocwise” messaging with residents living close to the creek, to reiterate the need to be mindful of crocodiles in croc country.

“Fishers Creek is an unusual spot to find a saltwater crocodile, but it’s not impossible for crocs to be found in the area,” he said.

“This is a timely reminder to expect crocodiles in all croc country waterways, even if there are no warning signs around.”

The crocodile was taken to a secure DES facility where she will remain until a suitable home is found in a licensed crocodile farm or zoo.

The DES encourage all members of the public to report all crocodile sightings as soon as possible, by using the QWildlife App on their smart phone or by calling 1300 130 372.

The spokesman said the DES investigates all reports they receive.

Originally published as DES removed saltwater croc after it rapidly approached their vessel