Crocodiles
Just because you can’t see a crocodile, doesn’t mean there isn’t one close by.
Crocodiles can stay out of sight, underwater for hours at a time.
Crocodiles are highly mobile at any time, especially after heavy rain and floods. They can travel hundreds of kilometres in water and can be found in all waterways and oceans within crocodile habitat.
Crocodiles are apex predators that capture their prey using stealth and camouflage. Even very large crocodiles can remain unseen in shallow water.
Their extraordinary sight, smell and other sensory organs alert them to the presence of potential prey. They can attack from any depth of water, including while underwater.
If a crocodile is hunting you, you will not know it
You can live and play safely in areas inhabited by crocodiles by being Crocwise.
Learn how to Be Crocwise and keep yourself, your family and friends safe in and around the water.
- Keep out of the water. A crocodile can attack even if you are in shallow water for a short time.
- Stay at least 5m from the water’s edge—crocodiles can attack people and animals at the water’s edge.
- Keep a sturdy object like an esky, a tree stump or large rock between yourself and the water.
- If you must approach the water, avoid crouching down and never use the same location twice.
- Supervise children and keep them away from the water’s edge.
- Be extra cautious at night, dusk and dawn. Crocodiles are more likely to hunt at these times and are more difficult to see.
- Be aware that crocodile attacks can occur at any time of the year.
- Take leftover food, fish scraps or bait home with you or dispose of them in a bin. These food sources attract crocodiles if left near water, camp sites or boat ramps.
- Keep pets on a lead and away from the water’s edge.
- Stay away from crocodile traps, crocodile nests and places with crocodile tracks and slide marks. Crocodiles may be close by.
To learn more about being crosswise visit this site