AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION 31 December 13 Top End crocodile capture numbers down for year

A total of 225 saltwater crocodiles were removed from Northern Territory waterways during 2013.

Parks and Wildlife Commission NT wildlife ranger Dani Best said this included 190 removed from the Darwin region and 15 from the Katherine area.

“Although the tally from this year is lower than the 2012 record of 314, Top Enders should not become complacent,” Ms Best said.

“With approximately four salties removed from Top End waters every week on average, this should serve as a reminder to the public to be 'crocwise'.

“This means behaving responsibly in and around Territory waters and not putting yourself or others at risk of crocodile attack.

“We urge everyone to be extremely cautious around all waterways and to heed safety signs.

“The crocodile management team has been able to remove crocodiles from Territory waters during through the use of traps and custom-fitted croc boats that include specifically fitted harpoon racks, crocodile slides, self draining decks and side rails.”

Of the 225 saltwater crocodiles captured this year, 161 were removed from Darwin Harbour, including a 4.25m male in February.

The largest of the 225 saltwater crocodiles removed from Top End waters was a 4.7m male in August, caught at Mary River, which was also the largest croc removed all year in the Top End.

It was shot after it attacked and killed 26-year-old Darwin IT worker Sean Cole as he tried to swim across the Mary River.

Rangers say fewer people are taking dangerous risks at Top End waterways and more are reporting croc sightings.

Estuarine crocodiles are common in the Top End and can inhabit many waterways, including freshwater systems, billabongs and low areas subject to flooding.
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