Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Gold Coast, Queensland – A pair of Queensland residents were astonished to discover a freshwater crocodile in an area considered well outside the reptile’s established habitat range. The unexpected encounter occurred in Mudgeeraba, a suburb of the Gold Coast, leaving locals questioning the animal’s unusual presence.
Unusual Reptile Sighting in Gold Coast Suburb
Zane Hemmings made the initial sighting of the crocodile on a Mudgeeraba street. He promptly alerted his friend, Lachlan Sainsbury. Sainsbury initially expressed skepticism, mistaking the description for a common lizard sighting until he saw the freshwater crocodile firsthand.
Men Capture Out-of-Place Crocodile
The two men successfully captured the displaced reptile without incident. They then promptly contacted the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to report their extraordinary find and ensure the animal’s safe removal.
Official Statement on Crocodile’s Location
A spokesperson from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation confirmed the unusual nature of the discovery. “Freshwater crocodiles are indigenous to Queensland, but their typical habitats are situated in remote inland regions across central, western and northwestern parts of the state,” the spokesperson stated to 7News. “The Gold Coast region is not recognized as a natural environment for freshwater crocodiles.”
Possible Origins of the Wandering Reptile
According to the department, the juvenile crocodile, estimated to be around two months old, was likely either a reptile that had escaped from captivity as a pet or an animal that had been illegally moved from its natural wild habitat to the Gold Coast region.
Future for the Freshwater Crocodile
The department spokesperson indicated that the young crocodile is expected to be relocated to a permanent new habitat, most likely at a zoo or a specialized wildlife rescue facility, ensuring its ongoing care and safety.