The Cairns Post

Pool croc going to safe spot

- ANDREA FALVO andrea.falvo@news.com.au

A CROCODILE removed from a residentia­l pool at Tully Heads will not be released back into the wild.

Wildlife officers from the Department of Environmen­t and Science removed the 80cm estuarine crocodile from the pool on Tuesday morning.

A DES spokeswoma­n said the animal appeared to be in good health and would now be placed at a licensed zoo or crocodile farm.

“All crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan,” she said.

The spokeswoma­n said Tully Heads was well within known crocodile country and people should expect crocodiles in all Far North Queensland waterways even if there was no warning sign.

“Crocodiles often move around in search of new habitat, particular­ly during significan­t rainfall events or during extended dry periods,” she said. “On rare occasions, this may include into swimming pools.”

The warning comes after Far North resident Yeng Thao spotted another crocodile on the beach at Coconuts, about 6km north east of Innisfail, on Tuesday. Anyone spotting a croc is urged to report it as soon as possible to the Department of Environmen­t and Science by calling 1300 130 372.

 ?? Picture: YENG THAO, FACEBOOK ?? SUNBATHER: Far North resident Yeng Thao spotted a crocodile on the beach at Coconuts, about 6km north east of Innisfail, on Tuesday.
Picture: YENG THAO, FACEBOOK SUNBATHER: Far North resident Yeng Thao spotted a crocodile on the beach at Coconuts, about 6km north east of Innisfail, on Tuesday.
 ?? Picture: NOEL KING ?? DOING LAPS: A croc in a pool at Tully Heads.
Picture: NOEL KING DOING LAPS: A croc in a pool at Tully Heads.

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