The tropical climate in Northern Territory has made Darwin a suitable place for a saltwater crocodile to live. It is a part of Australia that is home to more crocodiles than anywhere in the world; that is why many enthusiasts and experts visit the site to learn more about these magnificent creatures.
However, they become a threat to humanity when they are seen near human settlements. Recently a local spotted a 6.5ft (2m) long saltwater crocodile in a popular swimming site near Darwin, which prompted rangers to release a public warning to not swim in the area. For now, wildlife rangers have not yet captured the crocodile for relocation and are still considered to be on the loose.
Beware: Croc Still At Large At Popular Swimming Site Near Darwin
Saltwater crocodiles, locally known as salties, are the largest species of reptiles in the world and have sat at the top of the food chain for over 100 million years. It is indeed unnerving to see one swimming near the areas humans would frequent.
Tim Walker, a business owner who conducts motorbike tours through the popular swimming site near Darwin, has captured the moment a saltwater crocodile cruised through the waters. "I saw what I thought was the head of a crocodile and so I slowed down a bit as I looked, and it ducked under the water which was really cool," local news outlet 9News quoted Mr. Walker.
He added that he saw the crocodile playing around in the water for a few minutes in the area where large groups and families would usually go swimming, especially for the last two months. Even his co-worker Rebekah Williams has also frequently watched people swimming the creek during the wet season.
When Walker comes back to the area, a trap is set to catch and relocate the crocodile. ABC News reported that the trap had been set at the Girraween creek and the NT Environment.
Meanwhile, senior wildlife ranger Tommy Nichols of the Parks and Water Security Department has pleaded with Top End residents to take extra caution around the creek as large and dangerous live in these areas and can move undetected. The higher the water level during the wet season, the more likely there will be crocodiles in the area.
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What to Do When Faced With Crocodiles?
According to the educational website History, a crocodile's jaw can crush its victim with 3,700 pounds per square inch of force or equivalent to over three and a half times to the bite of a lion and 25 times to a human's bite. Crocodile attacks are also considered 100 times deadlier than shark attacks as the latter is more frequent than the former, such as the mass attacks during World War II.
It is always best to swim only in areas marked safe for water activities and always keep an eye out to be safer. Also, boaters are advised to avoid leaning over the side of their watercraft as crocodiles can jump on and capsize small vessels.
In case of being faced with one, experts said to back away slowly and do not make any sudden movements because splashing water will only draw more attention. Lastly, do not believe the myth of running zig-zag because crocodiles can run fast. Therefore, run straight and remove those flip flops to run faster.
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