The discovery of a large, baited hook in the upper reaches of the Bohle River in Townsville is under investigation, with wildlife officers convinced it was set to catch a large crocodile in the area.
On 20 January 2025, wildlife officers found the hook and snare line during an investigation into a sighting report of a large crocodile in the river.
Senior Wildlife Officer Tony Frisby said the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) received a report on 8 January 2024 about a large crocodile in the Bohle River near residential areas and a turf farm.
"Wildlife officers investigated the sighting report and observed an estimated 3.8 metre crocodile on the bank of the river," Mr Frisby said.
"Given the size of the animal and its location, it has been declared as a dangerous crocodile and we have set a baited trap to capture it.
"As part of our investigation, wildlife officers found the large, baited hook and snare line attached to a pylon beneath the Little Bohle Bridge.
"We strongly believe that someone set the baited hook in a deliberate attempt to capture and kill the crocodile.
"If the crocodile had been hooked, it could've drowned or died with the hook lodged inside its throat or stomach.
"We conducted further searches of the river for similar devices and didn't find any.
"We don't tolerate poaching or acts of animal cruelty like this, and anyone with information about the setting of this baited hook and line is urged to contact the department."
Mr Frisby thanked the person who reported the crocodile to the department via the QWildlife app.
"It is important that every crocodile sighting is reported to us in a timely manner, and wildlife officers investigate every report we receive," he said.
"We have targeted this animal for removal from the wild, and if captured, it will be rehomed in a zoo or farm where it can be part of a breeding program or educational program.
"Crocodiles are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the maximum penalty for the deliberately harm or killing of a crocodile is $36,293.
"Being caught in possession of a deceased crocodile or parts of a deceased crocodile, such as a skull, skin or claws is also an offence.
Anyone with information about the hook, any deceased crocodiles, or with information about people in possession of crocodile skulls or other body parts, should call 1300 130 372 or contact the Queensland Police Service.
Information can be provided anonymously.
