Boar Creek crocodile removed from the wild

Issued: 13 December 2024

Photo of the crocodile was captured in a baited trap Open larger image

The crocodile was captured in a baited trap

A large crocodile that took a steer during mustering operations and showed no fear of people at Boar Creek near Tully has been removed from the wild.

On 27 November 2024, a grazier took a video of the crocodile taking the steer and reported the incident to the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).

During the investigation, wildlife officers observed the crocodile sunning itself on a bank of Boar Creek and found evidence that it had been eating cattle carcasses near the creek.

Crocodiles that can access food such as cattle carcasses or fish frames at boat ramps are more likely to be removed from the wild than those left to source their own food.

Anyone with information about the deliberate feeding of this crocodile or any crocodile is asked to call DETSI on 1300 130 372. Information can be provided anonymously.

On 12 December 2024, the 3.9m crocodile was captured in a baited trap set on the bank of the creek. It will be provided to a crocodile farm or zoo.

The Tully area is Croc Country. Despite the removal of this crocodile, people still need to be Crocwise in the Boar Creek area as other crocodiles could move in at any time.

Summer is crocodile breeding season, and male crocodiles can become aggressive and territorial.

People are responsible for their own safety in Croc Country, and we’re asking people to make sensible choices around the water.

Crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.

Residents and visitors in Croc Country are encouraged to report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner to the department.

Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372. The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.

People in Croc Country are urged to be CrocWise, which includes:

  • Expect crocodiles in all 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 crocodile traps – that includes when 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 as far back from the edge of the water as possible
  • Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, at camp sites or at boat ramps
  • Never provoke, harass, or feed crocs
  • Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.