Wildlife officers used a metal detector to search the carcass for bullets.
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) have examined the carcasses of deceased crocodiles in the Norman River near Normanton as part of the investigation into their deaths.
Wildlife officers travelled to Normanton after receiving multiple reports about deceased crocodiles in the area.
Multiple patrols of the Norman River have been conducted, covering the entire area where the carcasses had been reported, and wildlife officers can confirm the deaths of four crocodiles within the past two weeks.
During these patrols, wildlife officers examined two large carcasses and scanned them with a metal detector to determine whether the animals had been shot.
The metal detector did not detect any bullets inside the crocodiles, and due to the advanced state of decomposition, wildlife officers were unable to determine the causes of death.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the deceased crocodiles is encouraged to call 1300 130 372 or contact the Queensland Police Service via Crime Stoppers. Information can be provided anonymously.
DES would like to thank the following agencies and entities for their assistance during the ongoing investigation:
- Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol
- The Queensland Police Service
- Rangers from the Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation
- Carpentaria Shire Council
- Local fishermen and tourism operators.
Estuarine crocodiles in Queensland are a vulnerable species and are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
It is unlawful to deliberately harm or kill crocodiles or be in possession of a deceased crocodile or parts of a deceased crocodile.
The maximum penalty for the deliberate harm or killing of crocodiles in Queensland is $34,830.
