A three to four-metre crocodile has been caught in Saltwater Creek at Newell Beach, near Mossman.

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said rangers believed this crocodile was the one recently reported.

“The crocodile was caught today (30 April) in a trap set on 19 April following several reports about a large crocodile swimming close to the beach,” Mr Powell said.

The capture follows the removal of a 2.3-metre crocodile from Dickson Inlet in Port Douglas last week.

Member for Cook David Kempton said he was pleased the trapping attempts had been successful and said the capture reaffirmed the Newman Government’s pledge to better manage crocodiles in north Queensland.

“Both the Minister and I have consistently said this government would act quickly to capture crocodiles that present any risk to people and we have taken a keen interest in ensuring that is the case,” Mr Kempton said.

The crocodile was to be recovered yesterday when tides allowed access to the trap, and after it is assessed it will be offered to a registered crocodile farm or zoo.

“Any crocodile which is assessed as displaying behaviour that constitutes a threat to human safety will be targeted for capture and removal,” Mr Powell said.

“Unfortunately, the capture of one crocodile does not mean the region is crocodile-free.

“Newell Beach is within an area of known crocodile habitat and if anyone sees other crocodiles in the vicinity, this should be reported to EHP as soon as possible.”

Crocodile sightings can be reported at any time on 1300 130 372 and EHP investigates all crocodile reports it receives.