Quick capture of Bach Beach animals a reminder to not feed the crocodiles

Published Saturday, 17 December, 2016 at 12:30 PM

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection and Minister for National Parks and the Great Barrier Reef
The Honourable Steven Miles

The swift removal of two crocodiles from Bach Beach in a matter of days has prompted a warning to Thursday Island residents and visitors to never feed crocodiles and always dispose of food scraps and fishing waste responsibly.

A trap was deployed at Bach Beach on Wednesday 14 December 2016 following reports of a large crocodile which had approached children swimming in the area earlier in the week.

Environment Minister Dr Steven Miles said a 3.45 metre crocodile was trapped overnight on Wednesday and a 3.7 metre crocodile was captured overnight on Thursday.

“All the indications are that someone has been feeding these animals, either deliberately or by carelessly leaving potential food sources in the area,” Dr Miles said.

“This is a timely reminder to be extremely careful to dispose of food scraps at the beach responsibly.

“It’s very important that crocodiles do not learn to associate human activity with food so don’t feed them and don’t leave scraps on beaches, boat ramps or jetties.”

Dr Miles said EHP wildlife officers and Torres Shire Council rangers were working together to establish whether any further large crocodiles remained in the area.

“A spotlight survey will be carried out by EHP wildlife officers and the local rangers and further trapping may be necessary if it appears that the target animal remains at large,” he said.

“All decisions in relation to these crocodiles are being taken in consultation with Traditional Owners.”

It is important to always be CrocWise in Croc Country. In particular:

 

  • Obey croc warning signs
  • Don’t swim or let domestic pets swim in waters where crocs may live
  • Be aware 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
  • Never interfere with or fish or boat near crocodile traps, and
  • Always supervise children
  • Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in croc country.

 

Further information on being CrocWise is available at

http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/wildlife/livingwith/crocodiles/crocodiles__be_croc_wise.html

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

ENDS

Media contact: 0422 580 342