How a toothless five metre crocodile could have gone 12 MONTHS without any food or water before it was eventually captured by rangers
- Five-metre long crocodile was captured by government rangers in September
- Crocodile was caught after toothless animal was found injured
- Authorities say the crocodile had a bulge in it’s stomach and a intestine infection
A five-metre long crocodile without any teeth could have gone 12 months without food before it was captured by rangers.
The saltwater crocodile, estimated to be 75 years old, was captured by Department of Environment and Science in September at a swimming hole in Babinda, Cairns, Far North Queensland.
An abnormal bulge in the crocodile’s abdomen prevented the animal from submerging into the water and hunting, The Cairns Post reported.
The saltwater crocodile, estimated to be 75 years old, was captured by Department of Environment and Science in September at a swimming hole in Babinda, Cairns, Far North Queensland
X-rays showed the crocodile had a severe intestinal blockage and possible rupture, preventing the animal from processing food.
‘Due to the severe and chronic nature of the crocodile’s condition, its estimated age of 75 plus years and the knowledge that large crocodiles do not respond well to major surgery, a decision was made to humanely euthanise the animal,’ a Department of Environment and Science spokesman said.
‘Wildlife officers and vets then conducted a necropsy, which confirmed the initial prognosis.’
It was initially hoped the crocodile would be rehomed at a registered wildlife park or zoo.
The decision was made following consultation with Traditional Owners of the area.
The crocodile was captured after baits with pig carcasses were set up along the river.
Babinda is known to have many crocodiles in the area and people are always urged to be Crocwise.
The crocodile was captured after baits with pig carcasses was set up along the river (map of where crocodile was captured)