Wildlife rangers have caught a massive croc off Townsville after it was feeding on scraps

It took just 90 minutes for a massive croc to be caught in a trap off a Townsville beach after it was hanging around boat ramps and pontoons. VIDEO INCLUDED>>>

IT took just 90 minutes for a massive croc to be caught in a trap off a Townsville beach after it was seen near boat ramps and pontoons feeding off scraps.

The croc, measuring 3.8m, was caught on Thursday in a trap set near Saunders Beach, after it was seen hanging around the pontoon at Purono Park on Althaus Creek and nearby boat ramps.

Department of Environment and Science wildlife officers believe the crocodile had been hanging around the boat ramps and pontoon because people had deliberately or inadvertently fed it discarded fish frames, fish scraps and leftover bait.

The crocodile that was caught in a trap near Saunders Beach.

The croc will now be rehomed in a farm or zoo.

Discarded fish frames were seen by DES officers during a site inspection, and given the croc was caught so quickly, it was a strong indication the big boy was used to feeding on discarded scraps.

The big croc catch is a reminder for people to properly dispose of fish scraps and unwanted bait, or dispose of disused bait and fish carcasses at home.

Crocs can change their behaviour and remain in one area if scraps are dumped in the area, since they will just wait for their next meal.

The crocodile pictured before it was caught.

It goes without saying people lives are put at serious risk, and the penalty for deliberately feeding crocodiles is $5222.

Anyone with information about the deliberate feeding of crocodiles should call DES on 1300 130 372.

CROC WISE TIPS

*Expect crocodiles in ALL North Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign

*Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe

*Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night

*Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating

*The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks

*Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure

*Camp at least 50m from the edge of the water

*Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, at camp sites or at boat ramps

*Never provoke, harass or feed crocs

*Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

Originally published as Wildlife rangers have caught a massive croc off Townsville after it was feeding on scraps