NT: 300kg croc captured in Katherine River

AAP General News (Australia)
12-06-2006
NT: 300kg croc captured in Katherine River

DARWIN, Dec 6 AAP - A 300kg saltwater crocodile has been hauled out of a section of
the Katherine River that is popular with fishermen and canoeists.

The male saltie, measuring more than three metres, was successfully captured by wildlife
officers late yesterday afternoon at Donkey Camp, 8km from Katherine.

Parks and Wildlife acting regional director Sarah Kerin confirmed that the hefty reptile
died before making it to his new home.

The croc was spotted in a Zone One area of the river - the area most frequented by
the community for fishing and canoeing.

"In the interest of public safety all crocodiles sighted in the area are removed," Ms Kerin said.

"(It is) a no tolerance area for saltwater crocodiles."

Under the Katherine River Crocodile Strategy, Zone One extends from Nitmiluk, past
Katherine Township to Vampire Creek.

"Within this zone permanent traps are checked on a weekly basis and the area is surveyed
by boat and helicopter regularly as part of the Katherine Crocodile Management Plan,"

Ms Kerin said.

Yesterday's capture was the 11th crocodile that has been removed from the Katherine
River in 2006, and the third one removed from Zone One this year.

"The Katherine Crocodile Strategy aims to remove problem crocodiles that may pose a
threat to public safety while promoting the conservation and management of our native
wildlife," Ms Kerin said.

AAP tr/imc/bwl

KEYWORD: SALTIE

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