Angry reaction to croc killing
Alternative solutions called for
Crocodile conservationists have reacted angrily to the shooting death of a Cape York crocodile which is believed to have taken numerous dogs, with the state government saying it was unable to humanely transport the reptile.
The well known crocodile at Napranum came under the spotlight recently when a man posted a social media video of it attacking a dog.
A Department of Environment and Science spokesman said reports of sightings were received on April 28 and on May 8, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council contacted DES expressing concern at the safety risk the crocodile posed to the local community, and requesting assistance in managing the crocodile.
“Wildlife officers conducted a site assessment and attempted to haze the animal – using non-lethal pellets – to drive it away from the beach area,” the spokesman said.
“During the assessment wildlife officers observed bold behaviour by the animal and made the assessment that it represented an unacceptable risk to the safety of the community,” he said.
After community consultation the decision was made to euthanise the animal
“The animal could not have been humanely transported to a farm or zoo due to the distance from remote Napranum
to a suitable facility and the very low survival rate of crocodiles transported long distances by road,” he said.
But ecologist Brian Coulter, who worked in the crocodile section of Australia Zoo for 17 years, disputed this assertion.
“Nothing could be further from the truth,” he said.
“I have moved crocodiles from Cape York and the Kimberley all around Australia and it can be achieved very easily,”
Mr Coulter said.
“Going out and shooting them is the easiest option. We need to come up with better alternatives. We need to be protecting these animals.”
Katter’s Australian Party has called for crocodiles to be culled after Laura publican Kevin Darmody was taken by a crocodile at Lakefield National Park, which is a crocodile conservation zone and was closed at the time.
Crocodile conservationist and Solar Whisper boat tour owner David White said it was a terrible result because a video was posted for attention.
“They knew the croc was there and that it would obviously attack the dog, I am told this croc had eaten 16 dogs,” Mr White said.
“How that keeps happening is beyond me.
“I understand DES are in a difficult position because if this
croc attacked a person, then DES could be blamed for it, so they are ‘damned if they do, and damned if they don’t’, a difficult position to be in.
“DES cannot be liable for your poor choices and your safety and your pet’s safety is your responsibility,” Mr White said.
“It is very sad the last four crocs killed have been in remote areas – where can these animals live in peace?”