Crocodile captured in Ingham

Issued: 18 Dec 2023

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) has captured a 2.6m crocodile found sheltering at the edge of the flooded Palm Creek in the Ingham central business district.

Estuarine crocodiles avoid raging floodwaters wherever possible to prevent physical injury, and the animal was clearly struggling to cling to the streambank where the flow was slowest to prevent being swept into the raging torrent.

Senior Wildlife Officer Tony Frisby said the crocodile was captured using a noose that was placed over animal’s top jaw before being pulled tight, allowing the animal to be brought safely to shore.

“A wildlife officer was reviewing social media this early morning and noticed videos of the crocodile struggling in floodwaters in the middle of the Ingham,” Mr Frisby said.

“Our team then mobilised from Townsville and were able to capture the animal within 15 minutes of arriving on-site.

“The challenge of direct capture by a noose and pole is being able to get close enough to the crocodile to reach it with a pole and then to use some tricks to make it open its mouth and accept the noose without scaring it away.

“The sighting of the crocodile in such a built-up area generated a lot of local interest and I’d like to thank local Queensland Police Service for setting up a perimeter that allowed us to complete our work quickly without disturbance.

“We were very pleased to be able to remove the crocodile by direct capture as the flow in the creek was much too high for a croc trap to have been used.

“People in flood affected areas in Croc Country should avoid complacency around waterways, and the capture of this animal is a timely reminder that crocodiles can turn up in unusual places during and after flooding, including places where they may never have been seen before.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report all crocodile sightings to DES as soon as possible, through the QWildlife app, via the DES website or by calling 1300 130 372.

“Wildlife officers investigate every report we receive, and estuarine crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.

“Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Croc Country, and Ingham in known Croc Country and people must be Crocwise while near the water.”

Crocwise tips for people in Ingham:

• Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• 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
• Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
• The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
• 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 the water, camp sites or boat ramps
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

View further information on being Crocwise.