Crocodile removed from Cooktown’s Endeavour River

Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch has praised wildlife officers who have safely removed a 4 metre crocodile from the Endeavour River at Cooktown.

Ms Enoch said officers from the Department of Environment and Science made the decision to remove the crocodile after receiving reports that it was hanging around boats and the main boat ramp at Cooktown.

“Reports indicated that the crocodile had been approaching people and boats, which suggested that it had been fed,” Ms Enoch said.

“Officers believed it was moving between the Cooktown Wharf area and Finch Bay.

“Wildlife officers successfully trapped the large crocodile overnight with the assistance of local Yuku Baja Muliku rangers. The crocodile will now be homed at a zoo or farm.

“I would like to thank the local Yuku Baja Muliku rangers, local Queensland Police officers, Cooktown Shire Council staff and Department of Environment and Science wildlife officers for the collaborative effort in crocodile management activities in the Cooktown area.”

Ms Enoch has reminded the public about the dangers of feeding crocodiles in the wild and leaving fish scraps at boat ramps.

“This can lead to the animals associating humans with food, which poses a serious safety risk,” she said.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES on 1300 130 372. All sighting reports are investigated.

“It is very important for residents and visitors to north and far north Queensland to be aware that, no matter how many crocodiles have been removed, no waterway in croc country can ever be considered to be free of crocodiles,” Ms Enoch said.

“That’s why it’s important to be Crocwise in croc country.”

In particular:

• Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
• Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
• Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
• Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water 
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead 
• Report all croc sightings to DES by calling 1300 130 372.

Further information on being Crocwise is available at

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

Media contact: 0437 859 987