Butterfly Gorge: Waterhole closed after crocodile sighting
Several weeks after it was first sighted, the saltwater crocodile that has closed a Top End tourist destination remains at large.
Northern Territory
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A 2m saltwater crocodile at Butterfly Gorge has managed to elude authorities for several weeks.
A 2m saltwater crocodile at Butterfly Gorge has managed to elude authorities for several weeks.
The popular dry season swimming hole remains closed as Territory rangers and the crocodile management team work to safely remove the apex predator.
A Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security spokeswoman said the area remained closed.
"This is the first confirmed saltwater crocodile sighted in Butterfly Gorge (according) to our records," she said.
"Rangers and the Crocodile Management Team work hard to catch crocodiles as quickly as possible...however this can take time as crocodiles can move in and out of areas undetected."
The saltie was originally spotted by tourists just days after the gorge was open for dry season and is a timely reminder to all swimmers to be crocwise when entering the water anywhere in the Top End.
Croc keeps swimming hole closed for more than a week
A POPULAR Top End waterhole remains closed to the public more than a week after a crocodile sighting.
Butterfly Gorge reopened on June 1 but closed a few days after as a result of a 2m saltwater crocodile inhabiting the area.
As of June 15, the site remains closed, with a note on the NT Parks website saying it is expected to reopen in mid-June.
The Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security confirmed the sighting was a 2m saltwater crocodile.
“The Gorge will remain closed while crocodile management is undertaken,” a spokeswoman said.
“Prior to opening, a large freshwater crocodile was removed from the area.”
The Department reminded Territorians and visitors to remain vigilant when swimming and visiting water holes this dry season.
“If you see a crocodile, please report it to the Crocodile Management Team with the location, time sighted and estimated size,” the spokeswoman said.
“If you’re able, safely take a photo, as this will help the team determine if it is a saltwater or freshwater crocodile.”
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Originally published as Butterfly Gorge: Waterhole closed after crocodile sighting
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