Dead crocodiles found on same day is ‘coincidence’

The Department of Environment and Conservation said it was probably coincidental two crocodiles were found dead, one in Arnhem Land and one near Broome, on the same day last week.

The DEC is investigating a dead 4m saltwater crocodile found at Crab Creek, south of Broome, last Monday.

DEC West Kimberley Wildlife Officer Peter Carstairs said the crocodile appeared to have been shot by a high-powered rifle about two to three weeks ago.

“Decomposition suggests that it has been a few weeks since the animal was killed and teeth are missing from the skull, suggesting they have been collected by poachers as trophies,” he said.

Also last week, Northern Territory media reported a dead crocodile found near Maningrida, in Arnhem Land, missing a tail and with its mouth propped open with a stick.

The report said the crocodile was confirmed to have been shot by traditional owners for food as part of ceremony, but authorities had been unable to verify the incident in relation to the mouth being propped open with a stick.

Mr Carstairs said in WA, crocodiles were listed as specially protected fauna under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and the penalty for killing protected fauna was a fine of up to $10,000.

In July this year, two men were heavily fined after pleading guilty to charges relating to separate cases of illegal possession of crocodile remains.