AN aggressive crocodile with a history of menacing people around Innisfail waterways has been caught by rangers after lunging at a man near his houseboat.

Wildlife rangers caught the 3.3m crocodile early Tuesday in the North Johnstone River after the man reported a run-in with the reptile on Sunday night.

Department of Environment wildlife operations manager Mike Devery said the crocodile lunged at the man several times while he stood near the houseboat's anchor chain.

"Our wildlife rangers carried out a spotlight survey and overnight they captured a 3.3m crocodile, which matched the description of the target animal and had displayed concerning behaviour," Mr Devery said.

Innisfail Tackle and Sports owner Sam Pagano said he reported what he believed was the same crocodile to authorities earlier this year after it was spotted in the boat harbour.

"I think he's the famous croc that has been hanging around and sitting on the rocks while people go fishing," he said.

"I reported him some months ago when he was lunging up and biting at the fenders on the game boats.

"He's been in the boat harbour where people are leaning over and washing their boats, so you just can't have that."

Mr Pagano said the crocodile was well known in the area for its aggressive behaviour.

"This bloke's been showing himself and has no fear and that's the problem," he said. "We're going to have crocs and that's something we have to accept but when they're not afraid of us, that's not negotiable."

Mr Pagano questioned the policy of removing crocodile, saying it could create a false sense of security.

"There could be one that takes his place tomorrow, so you just wouldn't know," he said.

Steps will be taken to have the crocodile relocated to a Cairns zoo or crocodile park.

 Crocodile sightings can be reported on 1300 130 372.

NEW CAIRNS.COM.AU COMMENT POLICY
We welcome your comments on this story. Comments are submitted for possible publication on the condition that they may be edited. Comments submitted without a full name and suburb/location will not be considered for publication. Please read our full comment policy and publication guidelines.

Share this article