16-05-2025
Dangerous find near popular children's playground in Australia
Australian children had been playing at a popular playground, completely unaware that a massive crocodile was living in a nearby waterway. Images supplied by Queensland's Department of Environment show the 3.4-metre-long salty being hauled from wetlands at Ingham in the state's far north.
Although the large reptile was simply existing in its natural environment, the 110-hectare Tyto Wetlands, it was targeted for removal because it was dangerously close to the playground and recreational reserve. 'The crocodile was captured in a baited trap, and it will be rehomed at a crocodile farm or zoo,' senior ranger Tony Frisby said.
While much of the area has been cleared for sugar cane, the wetland contains rare grassy fields that were degraded but not destroyed. In 1997, rehabilitation began to combat weeds that had spread from a tip and farmland, and an artificial wetland was created.
It's not the first time a crocodile has been spotted at Tyto Wetlands, which is also home to wallabies, and a wide variety of birds, including owls and native geese. In May 2024, a 2.4-metre crocodile was removed from the water. Because it's unfenced, it's expected more crocodiles will venture into the reserve until changes are made.
Related: 🎣 Rangers make surprise find after pulling crocodile from popular fishing spot
As winter sets in, crocodiles are expected to change their behaviour and move into areas they haven't been seen before.
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'People are reminded that the Ingham area is crocodile habitat, and crocodiles do move in and out of the artificial Tyto Wetlands, particularly during flooding,' Frisby warned.
'Crocodiles could be present in any waterway in the Ingham area, and people should make sensible choices when they are around the water.
'As we head into winter, crocodiles will likely spend more time on creek and riverbanks, and may be seen in locations where they haven't been seen in years or haven't been seen before.'
Anyone who spots a crocodile close to human settlements is urged to contact rangers. This can be done via the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
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