Airlie Beach Queensland: Urgent warning for tourists and holidaymakers as VERY large crocodile spotted near busy tourist area
Tourists have been issued an urgent warning after a large crocodile was spotted near a popular beach.
The crocodile was spotted near Shute Harbour, about 12km east of the popular tourist area of Airlie Beach in the Whitsunday region of north Queensland.
Four crocodile sightings were reported to the Queensland Department of Environment and Science (DES) on Monday.
Authorities were alerted on Friday to a large crocodile (pictured) which was spotted in the waters of Shute Harbour, in the Whitsunday region of north Queensland.
The reptiles have reportedly been spotted in several areas near Airlie Beach.
DES wildlife officers searched for the animal and put up crocodile warning signs.
The photos show the reptile briefly appearing on the surface of the water on the beach.
DES authorities have warned that Airlie Beach is classified as ‘Zone E’, meaning crocodiles which appear to exhibit dangerous behavior will be removed.
Jane Burns, DES senior wildlife manager, said she and her team have not yet determined whether the animal needs to be removed from the water.
“Crocodiles often use the ocean to travel and we hope this will continue to move to a more isolated area,” Ms Burns said.
“However, based on the footage provided to us, this crocodile appears to be in poor condition and could be injured or ill, which could alter its behavior and movements.
“It is very important that anyone who sees a crocodile in the area reports it to us quickly, so that we can respond as quickly as possible.”
Several crocodiles have been spotted this week in various areas around Airlie Beach (pictured) and have been reported to the DES.
Tourists and locals are advised to report any crocodile sightings to the DES using the QWildlife app or by contacting the department by telephone on 1300 130 372.
Wildlife officers have also provided “Croc Wise” educational services to area residents, as part of safety programs, to ensure people know what to do if they spot the animal.
Some of the tips for minimizing damage include staying at least five meters from the water’s edge, disposing of all leftover food and fish in a trash bin, and avoiding traveling on the water in a kayak or paddle board. paddle.
Tourists who were recently on a river cruise in the Northern Territory were left scared after seeing a six-metre crocodile eating a smaller crocodile just meters from their boat.
Tourists on a river cruise in the Northern Territory were left scared after seeing a six-metre crocodile eating a smaller crocodile just meters from their boat.
Crocodiles can grow to very large sizes and are very dangerous to humans.
Saltwater crocodiles, the largest species of reptile living on earth, can grow up to six meters long.
They are often found in fresh and salt water, along oceans, rivers and streams.
Although the reptiles are commonly seen in coastal areas along the east coast and far north Queensland, tourists and locals are warned that no waterways and inland areas are off-limits to reptiles.
