High croc numbers in Top End waterways prompt safety warning

More than 160 crocodiles have been removed from Top End waterways so far this year – more than two thirds of the number caught throughout 2020 and 2019 – as authorities urge locals and tourists to be croc-wise.

MORE than 160 crocodiles have been removed from Top End waterways so far this year – more than two thirds of the number caught throughout 2020 or 2019 – as authorities urge locals and tourists to be croc-wise when exploring the Territory.

With the dry season in full swing and school holidays just around the corner, the NT government has issued a reminder that crocodiles are found in Territory waterways year-round and water users should take precautions.

According to the advice, swimmers should only swim in waterways that show a designated swimming area sign, campers should pitch their tents at least 50m away from the water’s edge and away from locations where animals and livestock drink, and boat users should stay alert when launching and retrieving their vessels and not dangle their arms or legs over the sides. Land-based anglers are advised to stand 5m back from the water’s edge at all times.

The warning comes after NT crocodile management teams have removed more than 160 crocs from water systems across the Top End so far this year, compared to the 233 removed during the whole of 2020 and 234 captured throughout 2019.

For more information, go to becrocwise.nt.gov.au/.