Be Crocodile Wise in Australia
by Jamie Stone
Many people have a lot to learn about the dangers of a saltwater crocodile
while visiting northern areas of Australia. Many encounters are unintentional
and often the results are devastating if not fatal. People should learn more
about the crocodile, where they breed, how to spot for signs of crocodile,
their most active periods of the year and general safety when camping near
water. The following information is to help people realize the dangers of
swimming in northern Australian waters.
Stay Alert for Crocodiles
Many accidents can be avoided with increased awareness.
It's common name, the Saltwater Crocodile, is also known as the Estuarine
Crocodile and 'Saltie'. They are found around the coast of Australia anywhere
north of the Tropic of Capricorn and inland for up to 100 km or more. They
are the world's largest reptile and have a closing jaw pressure of around 3000
pounds per square inch.
Saltwater crocodile attacks DO happen in Australia on a regular basis, though
the majority of attacks occur mainly on cattle and wildlife. Any stories you
hear about these creatures stalking other animals and humans, about their size
and their strength is probably NOT exaggerated. Many deaths to people have
happened over the years due to them not taking the threat seriously enough and
ignoring warning signs.
Always read the "observe crocodile warning signs", these are to be
taken seriously! They are erected in that particular area where a crocodile is
frequently spotted and could still be living or even breeding in that area.
These signs are there to warn the people of the risk and should never be
ignored!
Just because you don't see a crocodile doesn't mean it's not there!
Breeding Season of Crocodiles
Their breeding season is from September to May and the warmer weather makes
the cold-blooded animals even faster. Be particularly careful at night! A
breeding mother is more aggressive, guarding it's eggs until they hatch. The
nests are made from plant matter and mud, and usually found above tide level.
Keep this in mind when setting up camp or just exploring the bush.
Habits of Crocodiles
Avoid places where animals or cattle drink. That's where a crocodile would be
waiting for an opportunity to attack. Saltwater crocodiles are very
conservative with their energy. They stalk their prey and hide underwater and
wait to pounce. A crocodile you can see is less dangerous than one you can't
see, so stay well away from the water's edge even if you are camping, fishing
or just going for an evening walk.
Crocodiles can launch out of the water; never stand on logs overhanging water
and always keep your arms and legs inside a boat when fishing.
No warning signs? DO NOT SWIM no matter how hot or inviting the conditions may
be. The "saltie" is mostly found in saltwater, but they are also
found in freshwater rivers, billabongs and swamps. Consider swimming in any
northern waters dangerous regardless if there is a sign or not!
A crocodile sliding into the water from a river bank will leave a
characteristic mark; keep this in mind when setting up camp! Never clean fish
at the water's edge or discard fish scraps in the water. Most important if
camping always keep the camp site clean and free from food scraps and any
smelly fish bait. Remember crocodiles are most active at night, food scraps
and fish bait left outside your camp site can invite a hungry crocodile and a
shocking midnight scare.
Statistics of Saltwater
Crocodiles
Adult males can reach sizes of up to 6 or 7 metres (20 to 23 feet).
Maximum weight varies, but has been known to exceed 1,000 kg in 18 to 19 foot
adults. 5 metre adults are closer to 400 to 500 kg.
One of the largest crocodile ever recorded in Australia was 8 metres 64cm
(28ft 4 inches) shot by Krystina Pawloski on the Norman River in North
Queensland in 1957. Never torment or provoke a crocodile. They are a protected
animal to stop poaching and should always be left alone.
Always remain crocodile wise when traveling to northern parts of Australia and
always keep the previous information in mind to avoid any tragedies or loss of
life.
Be safe and enjoy your trip!
Jamie Stone
jamiestone4870@hotmail.com
Australian Freelance Writer
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