Local police were called to White Rock on the weekend following a crocodile sighting, Queensland Police say.
The Department of Environment and Science has issued the following warning:
Wildlife officers are warning people in White Rock to be aware of a large crocodile confirmed to be in the area.
Yesterday (28 January 2018), Police Officers from Edmonton were contacted by a resident from Atlantic Close, White Rock, to report a large crocodile in a heavily vegetated section of Chinaman’s Creek behind homes in the area.
Police observed a large crocodile in the creek and reported this to wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) at 11.45pm last night.
DES also received a similar report from a member of the public at approximately 8pm through its 1300 130 372 number.
The area is near an informal camping area that appears to be used by locals, possibly for fishing.
It is believed the crocodile may have been fed by humans as wildlife officers found animal carcasses in the area where the crocodile was seen.
Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, White Rock is located in Zone C – a targeted management zone, in which any crocodiles larger than 2 metres in length, or any smaller crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour, are targeted for removal by DES.
Wildlife officers will target the animal for removal, with operations beginning tonight.
Residents and other members of the public are asked to stay well away from the waterway while attempts are made to remove the animal.
Members of the public are also reminded to never feed crocodiles as it is both against the law and potentially very dangerous.
Fed crocodiles can associate humans with food, become bold, and may start stalking people near the water’s edge or making their way into camping areas in pursuit of food.
In Queensland, estuarine crocodiles are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the maximum penalty for the unlawful taking of a crocodile is $28,383.75.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected incidents of wildlife-related crime to the department.
This can be done by filling out a wildlife complaint form, which can be found at www.ehp.qld.gov.au/contactus/.
Reports can also be made to DES by ringing 1300 130 372 or through Crime Stoppers.
