A giant crocodile was among six caught in the Northern Territory in the first week of 2026 as a very wet season makes them more active.
The six include a 4.9 metre long animal caught by a Parks and Wildlife team near a popular swimming spot and relocated two kilometres downstream.
Parks and Wildlife Minister Marie-Clare Boothby says an exceptionally wet season expanded waterways earlier than usual and drove greater crocodile movements.
“Our management teams and park rangers are on the ground every day responding to reports, installing and checking traps, and conducting day and night surveys to keep Territorians and visitors safe,” she says.
“Our government has strengthened management capacity through additional staff, new traps and upgraded infrastructure, allowing faster responses to sightings and earlier reopening of popular parks and swimming spots when it is safe to do so.”
Click here to report a problem crocodile.
CROCODILE RISK
Parks and Wildlife senior executive director, Neva McCartney says public safety always guides decisions about access to swimming spots during the season.
“Where we can keep swimming areas open safely during the wet season, we do,” she says.
“Where the risk is too high, we close because public safety is paramount.”
Boothby says the animals are an intrinsic part of the Territory lifestyle and managing the risks that come with living and visiting in the Top End is essential.
“Where there is water, there is always a chance of a croc, particularly during the wet season,” she says.
“If you think a crocodile is nearby, report it immediately to Parks and Wildlife and follow Crocwise advice.”
SAFETY POINTERS FOR SWIMMERS
• Swim only where there are designated safe swimming signs.
• Assume that any body of water in a saltwater crocodile’s natural range is unsafe to swim unless signposted otherwise.
• It is never 100% safe to enter the water at any time of year.
Crocodiles may be more active during the wet season but they are present in Top End waterways year-round.
Source: becrocwise.nt.gov.au
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