Victoria Stone-Meadows

A deceased Crocodile found on Oak Beach earlier this month will not be examined by the Department of Environment and Science to determine a cause of death.

The two-metre reptile was found by Oak Beach resident Hugh Batters who said at the time the croc did not have any discernible injuries.

“The crocodile was lying belly up among the roots and did not display any injuries. There were no bite marks, blood or bullet holes,” he told Newsport.

“My guess is that it died of natural causes and washed up on the beach.”

A Department of Environment and Science (DES) spokesperson said the report of the dead animal was investigated but no further action would be taken.

“Wildlife officers from the DES investigated a report of a deceased crocodile at Oak Beach near Port Douglas,” the spokesperson said.

“A photograph of the carcass was supplied to DES and assessed by wildlife officers and as there were no discernible signs of injury, it was unlikely that a physical examination of the decaying carcass would determine the cause of death.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report crocodile sightings as soon as possible, by calling 1300 130 372.

DES investigates all reports it receives and anyone who has further information about how the crocodile at Oak Beach died is encouraged to contact DES on the same number.

See the video of the dead croc’ discovery here: