Bulla NT: Massive crocodile that mauled several dogs to death and ‘stalked’ terrified locals captured and killed
A ‘problem crocodile’ that killed several dogs and terrorized a remote community for months has been removed and shot dead by authorities.
The 3.63 meter long saltwater crocodile ended up in the Baines River near Bulla in Northern Territory after flooding earlier this year.
With houses just 250 meters away, the crocodile has since stalked and pounced on terrified passers-by, including children.
The monster predator was captured and killed by police and wildlife officials on Tuesday.
“After consultation with traditional owners, elders, community members and Parks and Wildlife, the crocodile was shot to ensure it did not continue to pose a significant risk to the community,” police said.
The 3.63 meter long saltwater crocodile had moved into a river after a flood. His new home was just 250 meters from local homes and he killed several dogs and lunged at adults and children
The Parks and Wildlife Department took the opportunity to conduct a crocodile safety session, giving the children in the community an insight into the dangers that lurk in the area’s waterways.
“Any body of water in the Top End could contain large and potentially dangerous crocodiles,” said DEPWS Director of Wildlife Operations Kristen Hay.
“That’s why we urge everyone to be Crocwise and only swim where there are swim signs,” she said.
The giant animal was then taken to Bulla, where the community prepared the crocodile for a feast in the traditional way.
The huge crocodile was captured on Tuesday afternoon and eventually shot and prepared for a feast in the traditional manner. Conservationists also took the opportunity for local children to get up close and personal with the crocodile and teach them about safety around the reptiles
Northern Territory Commander Kylie Anderson said the reptiles “could pose a significant risk to community safety”.
“Thanks to the seamless collaboration between Parks and Wildlife, our external police staff and local residents, we were able to safely remove the large saltie and maintain community safety,” she said.
“There is never a dull moment in remote policing.”
