When you live in Australia, you expect to encounter some wildlife in your backyard from time to time. But for one family in Cardwell, North Queensland, their recent encounter was a little too close for comfort.

A 2.5-metre crocodile was found poking its head under their fence, prompting immediate action from local authorities.

The family was understandably shocked when they discovered the huge reptile lurking so close to their residence.

The crocodile was estimated to be only 15-20 meters away from the family's home. This unnerving visit is attributed to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in the Cardwell area caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.

A huge crocodile was found near a family’s home in Cardwell, Queensland. Image source: Los Muertos Crew/Pexels

Wildlife Officer Ella Meeve, who was part of the team that responded to the family's call, stated, 'The crocodile was coming right up to the fence and attempting to stick its head under.'

The area where the family lives, known as zone 'E', is a general management area for crocodiles. It is common to find these animals in Cardwell, as well as in the nearby Hinchinbrook Shire.

'Where this property was located, it did have connectivity to other creeks and rivers in that area,' Ms Meeve explained.

'Pretty much up around that area you should expect to see a crocodile in any sort of water body. It is a typical crocodile habitat,' she added.

The reptile was caught by setting up a floating trap in the water with pig baits nearby. Within a week, the animal was safely captured.

Wildlife officers are now trying to find a new home for it after it is taken to a holding facility located in Townsville.

'There's a lot of it, you'd be surprised,' Ms Meeve said when asked about the paperwork related to crocodiles.

Authorities have reminded people to be 'crocwise' and to assume the presence of crocodiles in all northern and far northern Queensland waterways, even if there are no warning signs.

If you live in a crocodile-prone area, it's essential to be aware of their behaviour and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety measures to consider:

Source: Queensland Government

Remember, crocodiles are protected under Australian law, and it is illegal to harm or interfere with them.

If you encounter a crocodile, the best course of action is to retreat slowly and report the sighting to local wildlife authorities.

You can watch the footage of the sighted crocodile here:

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Key Takeaways

• A 2.5-metre crocodile was found close to a family's home in Cardwell, Queensland, poking its head under their backyard fence.
• The crocodile's presence was reported to authorities, who trapped and removed the animal following concerns for the family's safety.
• The crocodile appeared near the home after heavy rainfall and flooding in the region, which is known for its crocodile habitat.
• Officials remind residents to be 'crocwise', as crocodiles are common in waterways across northern and far northern Queensland.

Have you ever had a close encounter with a crocodile or other wildlife in your backyard? Share your stories in the comments below!

 

[marni]

Yep not unusual in that area. especially after minor or major flooding. That’s life in Qld

 

[Mrtnst]

I'm told by my parents that, when I was 4yo, I and a dozen other preschool children sat around in a circle watching and giggling as a 3 month old kitten killed a full grown yellow bellied black snake.

One of the joys of living in Far North Queensland. We were living in Townsville at the time.

 

[Staffordshire Whippet]

Meh.
North Queensland Terriers should just be treated with respect, unless they try to hump your leg.

 

[Colette 3799]

We were swimming in Berry Springs in Darwin and were told it was relatively safe, there were fresh water crocodiles but no one seemed bothered. We returned home and our friends stayed on. We had a phone call from them to say a salt water crocodile had got in there and attacked a woman at the spot where my husband had swam to onthe other side of pool. Actually, at the time had I had seen the signs about the fresh water crocodiles I probably would have gone in lol

 

[Gsr]

My only close encounter with a crocodile was years ago working in aged care, during NAIDOC celebrations. We bought some crocodile, emu, and kangaroo meat and cooked it on the bbq. The clients and staff were then invited to taste them. The only one I could bring myself to taste was the crocodile meat. We also had other indigenous foods we samples as well, fruits, berries, jams etc.