Wildlife officers investigating multiple sighting reports of a crocodile south of Bundaberg last week did not observe the animal and believe it may have headed north.
The comprehensive investigation involved day and night-time beach and river patrols, vessel-based spotlighting surveys and a helicopter survey along the coastline and local rivers.
Approximately 450 kilometres of coastline, creeks and rivers were searched during the investigation, which was sparked by social media posts, including a video appearing to show a crocodile entering the ocean at Coonarr Beach.
Senior Wildlife Officer Tony Frisby said the investigation was conducted by experienced wildlife officers throughout the long weekend.
“It has now been five days since the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation received the last sighting report for the crocodile on 23 January 2025,” Mr Frisby said.
“We thank those members of the public for submitting crocodile sighting reports and providing video footage of the animal.
“The Wide Bay is considered atypical crocodile habitat, and it is possible that the animal was flushed out of a river system in its normal range by high rainfall or due to a conflict with another crocodile.
“Crocodiles can swim up to forty kilometres a day, and the animal may be heading north, back into its normal habitat.
“We are monitoring for further reports, and I’d like to encourage everyone in the Wide Bay community to report whenever they believe they have seen a crocodile to the department.”
Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.
The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.
Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, the Wide Bay region is zoned as atypical habitat for crocodiles, in which any crocodile found is targeted for removal.
