A saltwater crocodile measuring an impressive 4.9 meters has recently been discovered near a favored swimming area in the Northern Territory, coinciding with the peak of the wet season.

Wildlife rangers, conducting their routine checks on crocodile traps downstream from Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park—located approximately 150 kilometers south of Darwin—encountered this gigantic reptile. This find is remarkable, considering the largest saltwater crocodile in captivity is Cassius, who resides in Far North Queensland and measures 5.5 meters.

After securing the massive creature, the rangers safely relocated it to a crocodile farm. This incident serves as a crucial reminder from NT Parks and Wildlife to ensure safety by swimming only in designated areas. By adhering to these guidelines, the public can enjoy the natural beauty of the region while minimizing risks.

Wildlife rangers safely removed the crocodile and relocated it to a crocodile farm.

NT Parks and Wildlife said it was a timely reminder to only swim in designated waters.

Wangi Falls is typically closed for the wet season.

“Where the risk is too high, we close, because public safety is paramount,” Parks and Wildlife senior executive director Neva McCartney said.

Rangers have captured seven crocodiles in the Northern Territory so far this year as part of routine wet season risk management, which is an average figure around this time.

Last year, 241 saltwater crocodiles were captured across the territory.

Parks and Wildlife Minister Marie-Clare Boothby said exceptional wet season rainfall has driven increased crocodile movement, with waterways expanding and connecting earlier than usual.

“Our crocodile management teams and park rangers are on the ground every day responding to reports, installing and checking traps, and conducting day and night surveys to keep Territorians and visitors safe,” she said.

“Our government has strengthened crocodile management capacity through additional staff, new traps and upgraded infrastructure, allowing faster responses to sightings and earlier reopening of popular parks and swimming spots when it is safe to do so.”

Residents or visitors in the Northern Territory are advised to be Crocwise and report a sighting to Parks and Wildlife.