Croc carcasses scanned for bullets in Qld deaths probe
John Crouch |
Authorities have scanned crocodile carcasses for bullets as they investigate reports some of the reptiles had been found shot in Queensland’s Gulf country.
Wildlife officers travelled to the Norman River last week to work with local rangers investigating the deaths of several saltwater crocodiles in the area.
After patrolling areas where the carcasses had been reported, they confirmed the deaths of four of the reptiles within the past two weeks, the Department of Environment and Science said.
Two large carcasses were scanned with a metal detector but no bullets were found, and “due to the advanced state of decomposition, wildlife officers were unable to determine the causes of death”.
The investigation continues and anyone with information is urged to call the department or police.
Saltwater crocodiles are a vulnerable species and the maximum penalty in Queensland for deliberately harming or killing of crocodiles is $34,830.
The investigation includes rangers from the Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol, Queensland police, Carpentaria Shire Council, local fishermen and tour operators.
AAP
