Lake Placid crocodile removed

A crocodile which had been frequenting Lake Placid in Cairns was euthanised this morning by wildlife officers.

Environment Minister Steven Miles said the crocodile, which was over 2 metres in length, was first reported to the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection on 9 April 2017.

“A floating trap was deployed and EHP contractors conducted regular night-time spotlighting patrols in an attempt to locate and capture the animal without success,” Mr Miles said.

“It was believed that the crocodile may have been moving in and out of the lake from time to time. The crocodile was also extremely wary, further hampering removal efforts.”

Mr Miles said that in recent days the crocodile had been seen basking on a rock at Lake Placid.

“In the interest of public safety it was determined last week to step up the operation and use lethal force to remove the crocodile if necessary,” Mr Miles said.

“I’d like to thank the Queensland Police Service and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service for their assistance to EHP’s wildlife officers in this morning’s operation.”

ENDS

Media contact: Katharine Wright - 0422 580342