Doubts over depth and legitimacy of Cow Bay decapitated croc investigation
CROC ISSUES
The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has refused to confirm if a comprehensive, scientific examination was conducted on the carcass of a large crocodile found decapitated at Cow Bay nearly two weeks ago.
The gruesome discovery on Cow Bay Beach shocked and sickened many in the local community, with some conservationists and residents believing the croc was killed for its head as a ‘trophy’.
Locals reported after several days, they had not seen officers examining the croc’s carcass, and decided to bury it due to its state of decomposition.
We put these questions to the DES, which said it was investigating the crocodile death, but we received either non-committal answers or vague responses.
- Has the DES completed its investigation into the death and decapitation of the large crocodile at Cow Bay?
- Did officers examine the carcass of the crocodile as part of the investigation?
- Can you give Newsport any detail about what the investigation involves exactly?
- Has DES received any further information about who took the crocodile's head?
- Has the community in and around Cow Bay been helpful in coming forward with information in order to help solve this mystery?
Instead of answering our questions specifically, the DES referred us to a “latest statement” available on its website (April 19), which as is obvious, is very general:
“The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has investigated the reported death and decapitation of a crocodile in far north Queensland.
“On 12 April and 13 April 2023, DES received two reports from members of the public about a deceased and decapitated crocodile at Cow Bay, north of the Daintree River.
“Due to the state of decomposition, it cannot be determined if there has been any human interference. It may be that the crocodile was decapitated (pre- or post-mortem) due to natural predation.
“DES will continue its investigations should further evidence come to light, and this can be reported (anonymously if desired) to DES on 1300 130 372, or to Queensland police.”
Crocodile conservationists and croc tour operators in the Daintree said at the time they believed the croc’s head would have been too tough to have been bitten off by another predator, and that there were signs it was decapitated with a machete or similar.
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