Spring Creek croc likely to have moved on say Wildlife Officers
Be Crocwise
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) are investigating sighting reports of a small crocodile found in a waterhole at Spring Creek, south of Port Douglas, on Sunday 23 January 2022.
Members of the public reported seeing the estimated 1-1.5-metre-long animal submerged at the swimming hole.
The Queensland Police Service installed a temporary recent crocodile sighting warning sign beside the creek on Sunday evening to advise visitors to the area of its presence.
Related: Warning: Crocodile sighting at Spring Creek waterhole
DES wildlife officers conducted a detailed sight assessment of the area but did not observe a crocodile, despite the great clarity of the water in the creek.
Wildlife officers also installed additional recent crocodile sighting warning signs in the area.
Wildlife officers consider it likely the crocodile has moved out of the area but will continue to monitor the waterhole and urge anyone who sees a crocodile in the area to report it to the department.
Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, the Spring Creek swimming area is within Zone C (Targeted Management Zone).
This means that any crocodile that is two metres or greater in length, or any crocodile displaying dangerous behaviour, is automatically targeted for removal by the Department
Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES by using the QWildlife app; by phoning 1300 130 372; or by going to www.des.qld.gov.au and selecting “Report an issue”.
All crocodile sighting reports received are investigated by wildlife officers and all crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
DES has noted a general increase in sighting reports since people began using the free QWildlife app, which is available for download at www.des.qld.gov.au. The app also provides up-to-date information on the numbers and locations of crocodile sightings reported in each local government area.
Port Douglas and surrounds is within known “Croc Country” and members of the public are urged to practice “Crocwise” behaviour, in particular:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
- Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
- Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
- Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
- The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
- Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
- Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
- Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
- Report all croc sightings to DES by calling 1300 130 372.
Further information on being Crocwise is available at: https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/wildlife/animals/living-with/crocodiles/croc-wise