Croc shock: Freshie strolls into Townsville service station

Locals got the fright of their lives when an unexpected guest made its way to their neighbourhood service station. SEE THE VIDEO

Townsville locals got the fright of their lives when an unexpected guest made its way to their neighbourhood service station – a freshwater crocodile on a leisurely stroll.

Police were alerted to the presence of a crocodile at a service station on Riverway Drive in Condon on Tuesday, March 19.

Acting swiftly, Senior Wildlife Officer Tony Frisby was called to the scene to handle the situation.

He successfully captured and removed a 1.4-metre freshwater crocodile from the premises.

The wild reptile was then transported to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation’s facility in Townsville, where it was securely placed in a pond for further observation.

The following day, wildlife officers conducted thorough checks on the crocodile, ensuring its health and wellbeing.

Satisfied with its condition, the decision was made to release the crocodile into its natural habitat — the Ross River, located above the weir.

A freshwater crocodile being released on the Ross River after strolling into a service station in Townsville. Source: DES

Mr Frisby said Townsville boasts a thriving population of freshwater crocodiles, particularly upstream of the Ross River weir.

While the reason behind the crocodile’s detour into the service station remains a mystery, recent heavy rainfall may have contributed to its unexpected journey.

“A crocodile walking into a service station is a reminder that Townsville is Croc Country, and people should be Crocwise at all times,” Mr Frisby said.

“The animal was released as freshwater crocodiles are smaller and not considered as dangerous compared to estuarine crocodiles.

“Freshwater crocodiles are timid and will usually flee at the first sight of people approaching, but they will act defensively if they feel cornered or threatened and people should observe them from a distance.”

Residents are urged to promptly report any sightings of estuarine crocodiles to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife in the region.

Originally published as Croc shock: Freshie strolls into Townsville service station