‘Such a croc’
Croc removal proposal questioned
“It really has to be a case-by-case process - there is no cause to get the tape measure out to be quite frank.”
Hooked Up Fishing Adventures Mission Beach’s Alister Pike spoke with Newsport regarding the recent proposal to remove 2.4m crocodiles from the Far North.
The proposal calling for a trial to remove a “modest” number of crocodiles from Queensland’s populated east coast to control numbers.
The proposal came following an independent, expert review of the Queensland Crocodile Management Program which made 22 recommendations for improving management and safety presented in a recent report by the state’s chief scientist Hugh Possingham.
Among the recommendations was the annual removal of a modest number of crocodiles that are at least 2.4m in length on the east coast between Cooktown and Ayr.
“Every animal is unique,” Mr Pike said.
“You get 2.4m crocodiles who are not going to threaten anybody and then you get others who are really cheeky and come up to boats or chew up crab pots.
“I think it is time for something to be done with those ones – moved on or put into a farm.”
Before starting his fishing charter business Mr Pike ran crocodile tours for many years even introducing the first night-time crocodile safari tour into Australia.
“Crocodiles are very interesting creatures”
“You only ever see the cheeky ones anyway – that’s the truth of it. Most crocodiles do not want to expose themselves to any risk or threat.”
“At night-time you may see their eyes, then they drop under the water, and you won’t see them again.”
“Sometimes you may see one that gets a little cheeky and sticks around – a bit like cassowaries. They associate humans with food or an easier source of food.”
Mr Pike said that he had been at Mission Beach since 1967 and started running his crocodile tours in 1986.
“I think I have seen one crocodile of that size (2.4m) at the far end of South Mission Beach and a couple of little hatchings who won’t reach breeding age anyway.
“I really don’t think they pose any real risk to us at all.”