‘Absolute tragedy’: Dominant croc’s body pulled from the water

The carcass of what is believed to be the dominant saltwater crocodile of the Dickson Inlet was  removed from the Port Douglas estuary by wildlife officers yesterday.

The 4.2-metre crocodile’s body was found floating and entangled in moorings by tour operators on Friday afternoon before being reported to the Department of Environment & Science (DES).

A DES spokesperson said the animal is believed to have drowned in the Dickson Inlet after becoming tangled in a crab pot and vessel mooring lines.

“The crocodile’s death is not being investigated,” the spokesperson said.

“Crab pots left in the water pose a risk of entanglement and drowning for crocodiles and other marine animals. People are advised to check crab pots regularly and to remove them from the water after fishing to reduce the risk of entanglements.”

The death of the long-time inlet resident has left the Port Douglas Yacht Club saddened with club manager Sam Leo describing it as an “absolute tragedy”.

“He was the big dominant croc, he has been around the area for 30 plus years, he is an icon,” Mr Leo said.

“It was in its natural habitat and unfortunately got caught up in the crab pot and tangled in a mooring line. He has probably done a death roll and found itself trapped.”

Mr Leo said the crocodile was “well respected” and a favourite amongst locals at the club and tour operators.

“It’s really unfortunate.

“He wasn’t an overly aggressive crocodile.”

Mr Leo said he didn’t believe anything illegal had occurred and that the crab pots were within regulations.

“It is just a hazard we face up here with crab pots and crocodiles around.

“It will be an interesting couple of years ahead to see who the new king of the Inlet will be."

DES has encouraged all members of the public to report crocodile sightings as soon as possible through the QWildlife App or by calling 1300 130 372.

DES investigates all reports it receives.