Authorities have removed and shot dead a “problematic” crocodile that had killed several dogs and terrorized a remote community for months.
The 3.63m-long saltwater crocodile ended up in the Baines River at Bulla in the Northern Territory earlier this year following flooding.
With houses located just 250 meters away, the crocodile had been stalking and attacking terrified passersby, including children ever since.
The predatory monster was captured and killed by police and rangers on Tuesday.
“After consultation with traditional owners, elders, community members and Parks and Wildlife, the crocodile was shot to ensure it no longer posed a significant risk to the community,” police said.
The 3.63 m long saltwater crocodile had moved to a river after a flood. His new home was just 250 meters from local residences and he killed several dogs and attacked adults and children.
The Department of Parks and Wildlife took the opportunity to conduct a crocodile safety session, allowing children in the community to get an up-close look at the dangers lurking in the territory’s waterways.
“Any body of water in the Top End can contain large and potentially dangerous crocodiles,” said DEPWS Director of Wildlife Operations Kristen Hay.
“That’s why we urge everyone to be Crocwise and only swim where there are designated swimming signs,” he said.
The giant animal was then taken to Bulla, where the community prepared the crocodile in a traditional way for a banquet.
The huge crocodile was captured on Tuesday afternoon and was finally shot and prepared for a feast in the traditional way. Wildlife officers also took the opportunity for local children to meet the crocodile up close and teach them about reptile safety.
Northern Territory Commander Kylie Anderson said the reptiles “may pose a significant risk to community safety”.
“Thanks to the seamless collaboration between Parks and Wildlife, our remote law enforcement staff and local residents we were able to safely remove the large saltie and keep the community safe,” he said.
“There is never a dull moment in remote surveillance.”