Qld rangers trap and remove crocodile linked to teenager’s beach attack

Rangers have captured a large crocodile believed to be responsible for attacking a teenage boy at Myall Creek near Cape Tribulation.

A large crocodile suspected of attacking a teenage boy has been captured at Myall Creek near Cape Tribulation. Picture: iStock

A large crocodile suspected of attacking a teenage boy has been captured at Myall Creek near Cape Tribulation.

Authorities confirmed rangers removed the crocodile on Tuesday morning after an extensive three-day search.

Rangers have monitored the area since the weekend attack using both aerial drone flights and vessel-based searches.

A Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation spokeswoman said evidence suggested it was the crocodile involved in the incident.

A large crocodile suspected of attacking a teenage boy has been captured at Myall Creek near Cape Tribulation. Picture: iStock

“This morning, our officers have successfully removed a large crocodile from Myall Creek, adjacent to Myall Beach,” she said.

The teenager was reportedly fishing in waist-deep water with friends at the small coastal community about 140km north of Cairns when he was bitten by the apex predator.

The group helped the boy out of the water and back to nearby accommodation provider PK’s Jungle Village, where staff and paramedics provided initial care before he was flown to Cairns Hospital on Saturday, October 25.

Under the Queensland government crocodile management plan, crocodiles larger than two metres are considered “large”.

While most crocodiles are highly territorial, the vast majority of attacks involve reptiles over two metres.

Authorities use size and behaviour to decide whether a crocodile is a problem. Picture: iStock

Authorities use size and behaviour to decide whether a crocodile is a problem.

In certain zones, even crocodiles under two metres may be removed if they act dangerously, while in other areas, size is just one factor in determining whether a crocodile could threaten public safety.

The DETSI spokeswoman said people were encouraged to report crocodile sightings via the QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372.

“We investigate every sighting report received,” she said.

It is understood the crocodile is being considered for rehoming options.

Originally published as Qld rangers trap and remove crocodile linked to teenager’s beach attack