Rangers move fast on killer

RANGERS are getting better at catching killer crocodiles, taking only three days to eliminate the reptile that attacked a spearfisherman south of Cairns.

The 4m long animal that killed Kanimbla man Warren Hughes on Saturday was shot dead by wildlife officers on Tuesday about 10pm at the mouth of the Russell River.

Dr Matt Brien from the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection said yesterday the crocodile had been behaving aggressively.

“The animal we’ve been targeting since Monday, over the course of the last few nights, displayed uncharacteristic aggressive behaviour towards the vessels that have been targeting the animal,” he said.

“It’s size, combined with its location – we’re confident this is the target crocodile.”

It took rangers five days to track down and kill the crocodile that attacked and killed Cindy Waldron at Thornton Beach on May 29 last year.

Dr Brien said, while each situation was different, especially in terms of location, the officers were getting better at targeting the dangerous animals.

“There are a number of factors that come into it,” he said.

“Crocodiles are not easy things to catch.

“We throw more resources at these animals and don’t leave any stone unturned.

“We have a highly skilled team of officers and I would say that we get better every time.”