The 2.8-metre “problem crocodile” removed from the Little Annan River by rangers on 27 April. Photo: Supplied.
A saltwater crocodile measuring 2.8 metres has been captured in a baited trap on the Little Annan River at Rossville on 27 April.
Rangers from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) set the trap on 24 April after receiving sighting reports from local residents.
Director northern wildlife operations Lindsay Delzoppo said the crocodile had been declared a “problem crocodile” and targeted for removal based on its size and location, close to the popular Rossville Retreat.
“The fact that it had entered a baited trap after only three days shows it must have been pretty hungry,” he said.
“We’d like to thank the members of community who reported the crocodile sightings to us; such information is vital for us to locate the animal promptly and assess that it needed to be targeted for removal.
“We would also like to thank the Cook Shire Council for their support and assistance while our wildlife rangers were investigating this and other crocodile sighting reports in the Cooktown area.”
A Rossville resident, who asked not to be named, said many in the area were concerned another crocodile had already been spotted in the same vicinity.
“They got that first one, but I’ve seen a grey one down there in the water, and [another Rossville resident] said they’d seen one the same colour,” they said.
“They’re just getting too thick in the water these days – they’re everywhere.”
Mr Delzoppo said the capture of the reptile was a reminder they could be present in any waterways across Cape York.
“The removal of this animal is a reminder that crocodiles are highly mobile and can turn up in places they may not have been seen for many years, especially after flooding,” he said.
“People living on and visiting Cape York Peninsula should be aware that crocodiles may be present in any waterway, even if there are no warning signs.”
Crocodiles can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
The trap on the bank of the Little Annan River at Rossville Retreat. Photo: Supplied.
