Second croc found in the Mary River

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection wildlife officers have confirmed the sighting of two crocodiles in the Mary River, Maryborough.

Minister for Environment and Heritage protection, Andrew Powell said wildlife rangers saw the crocodiles about 100 metres apart late yesterday afternoon while conducting an on-river survey.

“We knew there was one crocodile about 3.5 metres long in the Mary River and we have been trying to entice it into floating and land based traps since April last year,” Mr Powell said.

“The second crocodile is about 2.6 metres long. Both crocs are south of the Boyne River, and they will be targeted for capture and removal.

 “From time to time we’ve had reports of two crocodiles in the river, but now we can confirm it.

“The first crocodile was a timid animal, disappearing when rangers came across it.

“It was not tempted by baits we had in the trap, but we’ll continue our trapping attempts now we know there’s more than one croc in the river.”

Members of the public are urged to be very cautious in or near the Mary River, particularly up or downstream from the Beaver Rock boat ramp, where recent sighting signs have been placed.

In particular people should:

·             Obey croc warning signs

·             Don’t swim or let domestic pets swim in waters where crocs may live

·             Be aware that that crocodiles also swim in the ocean

·             Stand back from the water when fishing or cast netting

·             Never provoke, harass or feed crocs

·             Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, a camp site or boat ramp, and

·             Always supervise children.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to EHP on 1300 130 372 and the department investigates all crocodile reports it receives. 

Further information on crocodiles and Crocwise behaviour is available at www.ehp.qld.gov.au.

[ENDS] July 18, 2013 

Media contact: Brooke Hargraves 32390818