Croc sighting near Broome

A 2.5 metre saltwater crocodile was seen in a creek near Broome during a night spotlighting patrol last week.

After being spotted in Dampier Creek, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions has reacted by conducting patrols during the day and night and monitoring the Broome Crocodile Risk Mitigation Area around Cable Beach and Roebuck Bay.

Parks and Wildlife Service officer Peter Carstairs said the animal could be removed using a non-lethal skin harpoon or a cage trap.

“We are urging members of the public to remain vigilant around waterways where crocodiles are known to occur – we cannot guarantee any area in the Kimberley is crocodile-free,” he said.

Mr Carstairs said it was important to report all suspected crocodile sightings to the department immediately.

“As soon as we receive a report we can take action to remove it as soon as possible,” he said.

“Members of the public should not approach crocodiles and exercise caution in areas where they commonly occur.”

Estuarine and freshwater crocodiles are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950.

They live in coastal rivers and creek systems, and often occur in open sea and around islands.

Estuarine crocodiles also move inland along major rivers, floodplains, billabongs and into freshwater, rivers, creeks and swamps, which are habitats mostly associated with freshwater crocodiles.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to the Broome office on 9195 5500.