Northern Territory Leader Calls for Control as Crocodile Numbers Surpass Human Population

A tragic incident involving a 12-year-old girl who was killed by a crocodile while swimming has reignited the debate about the management of crocodile populations in Australia's Northern Territory. Chief Minister Eva Lawler has emphasized the need to either maintain or reduce the crocodile numbers to prevent them from surpassing the human population in the region.

Population Surge

The crocodile population in Australia's tropical north has experienced a significant surge, growing from 3,000 to 100,000 since the species was granted protected status in the 1970s. The Northern Territory, with just over 250,000 people, now faces the challenge of balancing the conservation of crocodiles with the safety of its residents.

Management Plan

Following the recent tragedy, the territory approved a 10-year plan for crocodile management, allowing targeted culling of the reptiles in popular swimming areas. However, it stopped short of implementing mass culls, considering the economic impact of crocodile tourism and farming in the region.

Public Concerns

The devastating incident involving the young girl, who disappeared while swimming in a creek, has sparked widespread concerns about the safety of waterways in the Northern Territory. With the confirmation of a crocodile attack, the community is demanding effective measures to address the escalating risk.

Government Response

Chief Minister Lawler has allocated $337,000 in the territory's budget for crocodile management, emphasizing the need to keep the crocodile numbers under control. However, opposition leader Lia Finocchiaro has called for additional investment and expressed concerns about the overall safety and security in the region.

Expert Insights

Renowned crocodile scientist Professor Grahame Webb has emphasized the importance of community education and research into crocodile movements to address the prevalent risks. He cautioned that simply resorting to culling would not effectively solve the problem, stressing the need for a more comprehensive strategy.

Ongoing Efforts

Authorities continue their efforts to trap the crocodile responsible for the fatal attack, highlighting the territorial nature of saltwater crocodiles. With the potential threat posed by the remaining crocodiles in nearby waterways, wildlife officers are authorized to take necessary action to ensure public safety.