Over 200 crocs caught this year as rangers warn Territorians to be ‘croc wise’

Rangers are warning Territorians and tourists to be extra croc-wise after four salties were captured recently. Check out the incredible photos.

As creeks and rivers start to rise, rangers are issuing a fresh warning to be extra aware of lurking snappies.

Environment, Parks and Water Security rangers have removed more than 225 saltwater crocodiles from the wild this year, but that number is actually down on average.

Veteran ranger Tom Nichols said the DEPWS crocodile management team rebaits traps around the Top End weekly, with four pulled in from Darwin Harbour on Wednesday morning alone.

DEPWS rangers caught four saltwater crocodiles around Darwin Harbour in one morning, two of which were 2m long. Picture: Annabel Bowles

“This year so far we’ve caught 225 saltwater crocodiles but most of the other years it’s up to 300 plus,” Mr Nichols said.

“The average size of crocodiles, which we get in Darwin Harbour, is roughly around 2.6m.

“But early on in the year we did get a croc which was over 5m.”

The four crocs pulled in on Wednesday were found in traps in Hudson, Bleases and Berry creeks, as well as West Arm.

Problem crocodiles are defined not by size but by their proximity to urban areas and their behaviour.

DEPWS rangers Jaylen Marshall and Tom Nichols splashing water on the crocs to keep them hydrated in the Top End heat. Picture: Annabel Bowles

Any saltie that poses a risk to people or stock, or acts aggressively, may be caught and sent to a croc farm.

“Our message all year round is to be crocodile aware,” Mr Nichols said.

“Obviously, during the wet season, it’s a little bit more, the fact that all our freshwater systems join up to the salt water.

DEPWS ranger Tom Nichols said areas where people walk their dog, like Casuarina Beach, are one of the ‘problem places’ for croc management teams. Picture: Annabel Bowles

“Quite often we’re getting calls, especially in the rural area during the flood time, about crocodiles in people’s backyards, swimming pools, all over the place.

“Our message is only swim where there’s a sign saying you can swim.”

To report crocodiles in Darwin call 0419 822 859 or 0407 958 405 in Katherine.

Calls will be taken 24 hours a day.

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