‘Dicing with death’: Massive crocodile hidden in family picture

A Queensland family have had a lucky escape after spotting a deadly creature lurking in the water just metres away.

Can you spot the hidden danger in this picture?

People are losing their minds over this seemingly “innocent” photograph of a family’s gazebo set up by the water - while a deadly creature swims just metres away.

A Queensland family decided to spend the day relaxing and cooling down at their local river before the chaos ensued.

A bystander captured this chilling picture taken in Cape York just moments after the family had fled from the massive crocodile that was swimming right beside them.

While it may appear to be a floating log at first, upon closer inspection a huge crocodile can be seen swimming just metres away from the family’s water side set up.

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The crocodile can easily be missed upon first glance. Picture: Facebook

“I know we live in croc country but always be vigilant,” the caption read on the post to a local Facebook group.

“A pic from a local family enjoying time on the Wenlock River cooling off until a visitor shows up.”

The terrifying snap quickly went viral, racking up over 4,000 likes and over 1,500 comments and shares in a matter of hours.

Facebook users were shocked at how the crocodile was camouflaged so well in the water, and how the family’s day out could have had a very deadly ending.

Many were horrified at the terrifying find. Picture: Facebook

“Very lucky they’re alive to tell the story,” one wrote.

“Never swim in dirty unclean water. Always make sure the water is crystal clear so you can see the bottom.”

“Once you enter the water in Far North Queensland you are no longer at the top of the food chain,” said another.

“I was told for every crocodile you can see there are another 7 hiding.”

“I bet the gazebo is still there,” posted another Facebook user.

“Nobody is going to want to grab that!”

Upon closer inspection, the croc can be seen lurking underneath the water’s surface. Picture: Facebook

According to the Queensland government’s ‘Crocwise’ campaign, it is important to stay at least 5 metres from the water’s edge in known crocodile waters while also ensuring that all food scraps go into the bin.

They also urge swimmers to be extra cautious at dusk and dawn when crocodiles are most active, and to always keep pets away from the water’s edge.

Swimming in murky water should also be avoided, even if it is only knee-deep.

Originally published as ‘Dicing with death’: Massive crocodile hidden in family picture