A young female crocodile was discovered swimming in the pool of the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort in Port Douglas, prompting swift action from wildlife officials. The attack happened after one of the resort’s staff members noticed the crocodile while making regular rounds through the resort’s property. This rare occurrence raises intriguing questions about crocodile behaviour in tropical North Queensland. It’s doubly troubling given the questions it raises, particularly during major weather emergencies.
Officials from the Queensland Department of Environment and Science were quick to respond. They quickly evacuated the crocodile from the pool and delivered her to a regional wildlife park Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Angela Freedman, Hartley’s representative, spoke of her relief at the success of the rescue.
“I think she will have a very good life, so fear not — well-fed, nice lagoon, handsome boys to hang out with in the future.” – Angela Freedman
Unusual Sightings of Crocodiles
In Australia’s croc country, crocodiles are often found in unexpected places. This is often the case during intense storms. As Dr. Charlie Manolis explained, disorientation makes it easy for crocodiles to roam into areas they usually wouldn’t venture.
“Sometimes crocs get disorientated, and they will go anywhere there’s water,” – Charlie Manolis
This new incident is eerily reminiscent of a similar occurrence in 2011. As recently as March, extraordinary rainfall meant that a crocodile had to be rescued from a convenience store in Townsville. The unusual phenomenon sheds light on how environmental conditions can affect wildlife behavior.
One reason crocs actively search out water is for mating and nesting. Angela Freedman, SPCA Animal Welfare Director, said the crocodiles were more aggressive because it was breeding season. Both males and females increase their activity as they seek available breeding habitats during this period.
Safety and Prevention Measures
According to the Department of Environment and Science, the goal is to move animals as near to their original home range as possible. Freedman stressed the importance of preventing wildlife from encroaching into human habitats. He emphasized the need of keeping animals safe from their own environments.
Provisional warning signs are erected in Cairns to warn residents of crocodile sightings in suburban creeks (Photo: GoodNewsNetwork). This precautionary measure is the latest in a series of steps taken to reduce potentially dangerous human-wildlife interactions.
Lisa Essenhigh, a visitor to the resort at the time of the attack, was left shocked after being confronted by the crocodile.
“In anticipation of seeing what’s going on, I’m splashing my margarita … and I’m seeing a crocodile swimming across the pool,” – Lisa Essenhigh
Essenhigh noted that these events could only take place in Far North Queensland. He spoke fondly of the region’s exotic wildlife encounters.
Relocation Success
Moving the crocodile to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the best outcome for her safety and long-term health. And Freedman certainly doesn’t want the chlorine in the resort pool to sound dangerous. In his no-nonsense manner, he assured me that if it can pass for kids, it won’t suddenly kill a crocodile’s ecosystem.
“The chlorine wouldn’t have hurt it — if it’s good enough for your children, it’s not going to hurt a crocodile,” – Charlie Manolis
While this is a tragic event, it highlights the importance of being aware of local wildlife. As environmental conditions fluctuate, it is vital for both residents and visitors to stay informed about potential encounters with animals like crocodiles.
