4.5m saltwater crocodile caught near Elizabeth River boat ramp

The Darwin Crocodile Management has already captured more than 100 crocs so far this year, sparking calls for safety ahead of the first long weekend of the dry season.

A saltwater crocodile the size of a small car has been captured at a popular fishing location, sparking calls for safety ahead of the first long weekend of the dry season.

The 4.5m male was caught by the Darwin Crocodile Management Team near the Elizabeth River boat ramp.

He was the 136th crocodile removed from around Darwin this year.

In March a 12-year-old girl was attacked by a 2m croc south of Darwin, while a 19-year-old man fought off a 5.4m beast in Groote Eylandt.

4.5m croc caught in the Elizabeth River in June. Picture: Supplied

Wildlife ranger Ian Hunt said the capture prompted the team to remind Territorians of the danger of Top End waters.

“This is a timely reminder that big crocs can enter the harbour undetected and there’s no room for complacency,” he said.

“An attack from a croc of this size would be catastrophic to a human.”

The predator was located close to where people fish in the Elizabeth River, and just a short drive from Palmerston.

People often fish from near the Elizabeth River boat ramp. Supplied: Department of Tourism and Culture

Mr Hunt said those heading out to go camping or fishing this long weekend should be aware of the threat of crocs and keep the following advice in mind.

“You need to stay alert while launching and retrieving your boat, and ensure all fish frames are disposed of well away from the water,” he said.

“If fishing from land, stand at least 5m back from the water’s edge and never stand on overhanging logs.

“The Top End has excellent camping spots near waterways. Just make sure you set up at least 50m back from the edge and dispose of food scraps well away from the water.”

The huge saltie was located near the Elizabeth River boat ramp. Picture: Supplied

The number of crocodiles caught in Top End management zones this year is on track to beat last year’s total of 280.

In 2021 there were 322 crocs captured while in 2020 there were 254.

Mr Hunt said while many waterholes had now opened for the dry season, some, like Butterfly Gorge, remained close due to seasonal conditions.

“If you’re looking for somewhere safe to swim, stick to swimming pools or designated safe waterholes.

“It should be assumed that any body of water in the NT is unsafe to swim, unless signposted otherwise.”