A large crocodile seen "swimming around haphazardly with a crab pot stuck on its head" has been caught by wildlife officers at Newell Beach, just north of Port Douglas.
The 4.5 metre animal had been reported as behaving aggressively around Newell Beach, Cooya Beach and in the mouth of the Mossman River.
It was caught using a trap and removed on Tuesday but given its size there are limited options for relocation.
Crocs greater than four metres are given "icon status" in Queensland and under state laws its new home can only be kept at a registered farm or zoo that agrees to use it for educational purposes.
The croc is being held at a secure wildlife facility in Cairns while appropriate arrangements are made.
The department will work in partnership with traditional owners to select a suitable facility to house the crocodile.
