Crocodiles are an intrinsic part of life in the NT, says Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby. Photo: Tourism and Events Northern Territory.
The Northern Territory Government is bolstering its crocodile control policy and reminding the public to be wary of the risks posed by the animals’ increased movement during the wet season.
Following the capture of a large saltwater crocodile near a popular swimming location in the territory, the government is placing renewed emphasis on crocodile safety.
A Parks and Wildlife team removed the creature two kilometres downstream from a well-known swimming area in what the government has called a proactive method of crocodile control.
Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said unusual wet-season rainfall had increased crocodile movement across the northern parts of the territory, as waterway expansion connected rivers and creeks.
Parks and Wildlife staff have captured six crocodiles in the first week of 2026 as part of their usual wet-season risk management. One of the captured crocodiles was nearly five metres long.
“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,” Ms Boothby 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.”
Parks and Wildlife senior executive director Neva McCartney said access to swimming areas was guided by public safety.
“Where we can keep swimming areas open safely during the wet season, we do,” Ms McCartney said.
“Where the risk is too high, we close because public safety is paramount.”
But Ms McCartney emphasised that swimming locations across the territory were still safe.
“Places like Wangi Falls provide a completely different and spectacular perspective at this time of year,” she said.
“Standing on the boardwalk and feeling the spray from the waterfall is something visitors will never experience in the dry season.”
Ms Boothby said crocodiles were an inherent part of living in the territory, and managing the risks that came with that fact was essential.
“Where there is water, there is always a chance of a croc, particularly during the wet season,” she said.
“If you think a crocodile is nearby, report it immediately to Parks and Wildlife and follow the Crocwise advice.”
For more information on how to stay safe this wet season, visit the government’s Crocwise website.
