An iconic star of the 1986 blockbuster Crocodile Dundee has died.
Burt, the monstrous 5.1 meter, 700kg crocodile from the adventure comedy film, in which he starred alongside Paul Hogan, died in captivity in Darwin.
He was “estimated to be over 90 years old.”
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium that had held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee,” they wrote on their Facebook page.
“Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be in his 90s, marking the end of an incredible era.”
Burt, the crocodile from the adventure comedy he starred in alongside Paul Hogan (right), died in captivity in Darwin and was “estimated to be over 90 years old”.
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium that had held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday.
The attraction then paid heartfelt tribute to the iconic reptile and it was noted as “one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world.”
“Burt’s life story is full of strength, resilience and a personality as bold as the Top End itself,” they continued.
‘Caught in the 1980s in the Reynolds River, Burt became one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world, appearing in Crocodile Dundee and helping to shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and stunning wildlife. .
‘In 2008, Burt arrived at Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education. Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor, an attitude he made clear during his early years on a crocodile farm.
“His fiery temperament earned him the respect of his keepers and visitors alike, as he embodied the raw, untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.”
They continued: ‘Burt was truly unique. It wasn’t just a crocodile; It was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures.
‘While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and loved by those who worked with him and the thousands of people who visited him over the years. Visitors from around the world marveled at its impressive size and commanding presence, especially at mealtime.
‘The Crocosaurus Cove team would like to thank everyone who visited Burt and helped celebrate his extraordinary life. As we mourn their loss, we remember the vital role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations.’
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium attraction that had held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday.
Crocosaurus Cove plans to honor Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign at the attraction.
Parks and Wildlife Minister Marie-Clare Boothby expressed sadness at the news of Burt’s passing while addressing the media on Monday.
“(Burt was) a real icon of the Territory, he obviously appeared in Crocodile Dundee,” he said.
“It’s very sad to hear…I think Territorials across the Territory would be pretty sad about this.”
In 2015, Burt made headlines after two drunk teenagers broke into his compound to taunt the beast.
The teenagers, described by police as “a little drunk”, sneaked into ‘Crocosaurus Cove’ and taunted the monstrous crocodile.
“At approximately 4:00am we received a call from the security guard… he, bless his cotton socks, gave chase and the two suspects fled,” Superintendent Del Jones said, according to Nine News.
Before the guard scared them off, the pair threw objects into the crocodile enclosure, including a “wet floor” sign and a pink buoy, which the 700kg giant summarily chewed up in disgust.
“Burt didn’t like that, he destroyed it,” Superintendent Jones said.
Burt starred alongside Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the original Crocodile Dundee film, as well as providing the basis for the digital crocodile in the 2007 film Rogue.
Burt starred alongside Hogan and Linda Kozlowski (both pictured) in the original Crocodile Dundee film, as well as providing the basis for the digital crocodile in the 2007 film Rogue.