North Queenslanders are being urged to stay alert around fishing spots after a 3.8-metre crocodile was captured off a beach near Townsville.
The juvenile male was captured yesterday by wildlife officers in a baited trap at Saunders Beach after wildlife officers observed the reptile around boat ramps and pontoons.
Department of Environment and Science crocodile program coordinator Matthew Bryant said it was not unusual to see crocs around Townsville's fishing hotspots.
"When the animals start hanging around these locations, it tends to be for a reason," he said.
"Like most animals, that reason tend to be any easy feed."
Dr Bryant said crocodiles feasted on fish scraps and leftover bait around the waterways.
"Unfortunately what that does is build up a lack of fear of people and an association with food," he said.
Snapped up fast
It took crews about 30 minutes to capture the animal, which Dr Bryant said was almost a record.
"We find the quicker the crocodile goes into the trap, the more of a problem it posed," he said.
Dr Bryant said it was also unusual to see a croc trapped in daylight and that it usually took about 24 hours to catch one.
He said it would only be a matter of time before another croc moved in.
"Where you tend to find crocodiles is good real estate as far as shelter, food and access to mates," he said.
"As temperatures start to warm up and we move into the breeding season, we do see a lot more animals moving around."
Any crocodile sighting should be reported using the free QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372.
