A three metre crocodile seen in a Wonga Beach residential creek recently has residents concerned for young children living in the vicinity.

The croc was reported by locals to be living in the creek at the end of Marlin Drive, which had previously been dry but became filled with rainwater in the days following heavy downpours around two weeks ago.

Residents say young children living in houses adjacent to the creek regularly play in the vicinity, sparking fears by parents for the safety of their children.

The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) says it received a report on October 23 of the croc basking on the creek bank before submerging into the water.

Dr Ashley Bunce, DERM’s Director Wildlife Management said the area has a permanent crocodile warning sign in place and temporary sighting signs were also erected following the report.
 
“After investigating the sighting, and noting that no further sightings have been reported, it has been determined that the animal was exhibiting normal crocodile behaviour,” Dr Bunce told The Newsport.
 
“DERM will investigate further and determine if any action is necessary should further sighting reports be received.”

Last week, DERM set a trap at Cairns’ Saltwater Creek, for a two metre crocodile seen near public facilities, sports grounds and alongside a riverfront footpath where bait scraps had been left in the area.

“It approached the bank where the officers were standing and was visible for some minutes before submerging, swimming a short distance and coming to the surface again,” Dr Bunce said.

The croc, should it be captured, is to be relocated to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service’s Tingira Street facility, before offered to a registered crocodile farm or zoo following standard health checks.

However, no such action has been mooted as yet for the reported Wonga crocodile.

In the meantime, DERM is urging members of the public to be “Crocwise” and:

• Obey croc warning signs;
• Never swim in water where crocs may live;
• Never stand in the waters edge or on an overhanging log, stand a few meters back for fishing or cast netting;
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs;
• Never leave food scraps, fish frames or bait on the waters edge, near a camp site or boat ramp as this may attract crocs to the area;
• Always supervise children.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to DERM at any time on 1300 130 372.

Further information on crocodiles, being Crocwise, and outcomes of DERM’s crocodile sighting investigations is available on DERM’s website.
 
Home page image by David White (file photo).

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