Source: Government of Queensland
Issued: 7 Mar 2025
A brutal attack on a crocodile which left it with an arrow or spear protruding from its head at Cape Tribulation is being investigated.
Wildlife rangers from the Department of the Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation received a report about the injured crocodile on 20 February 2025.
The crocodile was not seen during a subsequent site inspection, but wildlife rangers reviewed a social media video showing the animal swimming with an arrow or spear protruding from the right side of its head.
Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, it is an offence to deliberately harm or kill an estuarine crocodile, with a maximum penalty of $36,292.
DETSI Program Coordinator Simon Booth said anyone with information about the attack on the crocodile is urged to contact DETSI on 1300 130 372.
“The crocodile would be in extreme pain and if not captured and assessed, will most likely die a slow and agonising death,” Mr Booth said.
“Unfortunately, if we are successful in locating and capturing the animal, it may have to be euthanised due to the extent of its injuries.
“We are disgusted by this shocking incident, and it is disheartening to know that people can be so cruel.
“Queenslanders do not tolerate animal cruelty and targeting and deliberately shooting an arrow at a crocodile or any native animal is unacceptable.
“Crocodile sightings need to be reported to the department, and people should not deliberately harm them.”
Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372. The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.
Crocwise tips for people in Croc Country:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
- Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
- Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
- Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
- The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
- Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
- Camp as far back from the water’s edge as possible
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, camp sites or boat ramps
- Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.
View further information on being Crocwise.