Published Wednesday 25 May 2016

THE public has been urged to stay away from Ferndale Lake at Warri Park while a problem crocodile remains a threat.

A floating trap has been deployed using pig meat as bait in an attempt to lure the crocodile, estimated to be between two-and-a-half and three metres long.

The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) confirmed the croc was reported as a ‘concern’ last Friday following an incident on May 11 where a dog was attacked by the animal. The Labrador, owned by local resident Jan Churchill, later died from its injuries.

“Residents and other users of Warri Park are urged to exercise extreme caution in the vicinity of Ferndale Lake and to avoid the area if possible while the removal operation continues,” A EHP spokesperson said.

“It can take some time for crocodiles to become used to a trap and it is helpful if human activity in the area can be minimised.

“Port Douglas is well within known crocodile country and members of the public are reminded to always be CrocWise.”

Opinion is divided on whether the crocodile should be removed after it was reported on Newsport yesterday.

RELATED COVERAGE:
Floating crocodile trap set in Ferndale Lake

One reader commented that a crocodile ‘lunged’ at her grandson and his friends while they were fishing at Ferndale Lake last week, and suggested the lake needed a fence. Others said the community needed to be more cautious and keep their distance from the waters edge. 

The croc is believed to be known to residents in the area and could be the same one spotted in a drain next to the Warri Park car park last month, also reported on Newsport.

RELATED COVERAGE:
Croc spotted near car park near Warri Park

Wildlife officers from the EHP confirmed they attended Port Douglas following the recent dog attack and consulted with locals before deciding to target the animal for capture.

They also reminded the public to:  

• Obey croc warning signs
  
  
• Don’t swim or let domestic pets swim in waters where crocs may live
  
  
• Be aware that crocodiles also swim in the ocean
  
  
• Stand back from the water when fishing or cast netting
  
  
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
  
  
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, a camp site or boat ramp
  
  
• Never interfere with or fish or boat near crocodile traps, and
  
  
• Always supervise children
  
  
• Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in croc country.

Further information on being CrocWise is available at www.ehp.qld.gov.au/wildlife/livingwith/crocodiles/. Crocodile sightings can be reported to EHP on 1300 130 372.