CROC-SPOTTING

Crocodylus porosus - Estuarine or saltwater ('saltie') crocodiles are found throughout northern Australia. They are mostly seen in tidal reaches of rivers, but are also seen in freshwater lagoons and swamps and along some beaches. Males can grow up to 7 metres and mature at about 16 years. Females are smaller and rarely get bigger than 3-4 metres. Lifespan is unknown but they can live for at least 50 years.

Crocodylus johnstoni - Freshwater crocodile occur only in inland waters of northern Australia; they are found mostly in rivers and swamps. The 'freshie' looks very different to the saltie, are much smaller and have a shorter life span.

Crocodiles are protected in Australia Interfering with crocodiles or their eggs and possessing or taking parts of crocodiles, without a licence is illegal

Crocodylus porosus vary greatly in size. You may see very small hatchlings only 30 cm long up to monsters in excess of 5 metres. They haven't been around for 160,000,000 years for nothing. They have to be one of nature's best designs, capable of lying in a near coma state for long periods and then almost with the drop of a hat can burst into life at breathtaking speed to seize luckless victims!

You'll be amazed at how such big reptiles can disappear so silently into the water without so much as a ripple, or blend into their surroundings whilst sunbathing on the banks. You'll be surprised at the amount of times I've pulled up near large crocodiles and have said to clients, "There's over 4 metres of crocodile watching you and you've to find it". They look at you in disbelief and scour the nearby banks saying "there's nothing there". Finally their eyes lock on to him and I still get a kick as their mouths open and their jaw drops as they come face to face with the largest croc species. Take note as the signs you see up in northern Australia are not just for the tourists to take photos of!

We are happy to take you out at any time but certain times of the day prove more fruitful. An evening croc-spotting trip is available from 6-8pm and prices start from $55 per person. Sighting a large "saltie" is extremely likely at certain times of the year. Of course, as with all things natural and wild we can never guarantee a sighting, these animals do not perform on demand. What we can guarantee is a trip into the 'wilds'. Learn about these magnificent reptiles whilst watching the sun go down over the mighty Endeavour River and North Shore. Binoculars are provided but a camera is a must and don't worry, the boat is aluminium and moves quickly when needed!! This activity is seasonal so please check availablity.

CROC-TRACKING

On the 10thMay 2003 satellite tracking devices were attached to 2 Saltwater Crocodiles captured in the Endeavour river. The 2 crocs 'Harriet' and 'Charles' are part of a joint project between Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the University of Queensland made possible by a bequest by the late Charles Tanner.

Floating traps were set to catch the crocs
The traps were removed and the tracking devices attached
Charles the largest of the crocs is 4.3m long

Charles the largest of the crocs is 4.3 metres long. Once the tracking devices were attached they were released back in to the river.

Little is known about the movements of the Saltwater croc and this project hopes to provide some answers. ABC's Catalyst program filmed the event and you can read more at www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/s914438.htm