CROC Country
How to be crocwise
Be Crocwise in Croc Country.
The Estuarine Crocodile is more commonly known as the ‘Saltwater Crocodile’ which can be misleading as they can be found living in freshwater rivers and lagoons. Adult crocs have been sighted on offshore reefs and coastal islands. Crocodiles will see you before you see them.
Crocodiles are ambush predators that hunt using stealth and camouflage to remain undetected. Their mottled skin colour blends perfectly with the murky and muddy colours of Croc Country waterways.
Crocodiles usually hunt by staying submerged, patiently stalking or waiting for prey to approach the water’s edge. With the ability to stay submerged for long periods of time, they wait for the moment to suddenly lunge forward, propelled by their powerful tail.
Millions of years of evolution have created an animal with extraordinary sight, smell and sensory organs that alert them of potential prey. They can detect movement and pressure in the water, even in total darkness. A nictating membrane over their eyes gives them limited vision while underwater. Even large crocodiles can be completely concealed in knee-deep water.
Crocodile danger is real, and attacks can be fatal. Most people who have been attacked by a crocodile had no idea a crocodile was there. Crocodiles can attack in any depth of water and can attack while underwater.
Crocodiles are part of life in northern Queensland. You can live and play safely in Croc Country by choosing to Be Crocwise.
Stay aware and choose safe behaviours around water in Croc Country.
- Only swim in designated safe areas, patrolled beaches or inland waterways outside Croc County.
- If fishing, stay more than 5m away from the water’s edge. Crocodiles can attack people and animals at the water’s edge. If you choose to move closer to the water, keep a sturdy object like an esky or rock between yourself and the water.
- Be extra cautious at night, dusk and dawn. Crocodiles are harder to see in low light and actively hunt at these times
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp sites or boat ramps. These food sources attract crocodiles.
- Keep your pets on a lead and away from the water’s edge.
- Stay away from crocodile traps, nests, tracks and slide marks. Crocodiles may be close by.