Crocodile threat eliminated: Villagers feast on 3.7‑metre predator

Police shot a 3.7-metre crocodile in northern Australia that posed a threat to villagers. The animal was then eaten. Soup was prepared from its tail, and some meat was grilled. The reptile was notorious for attacking dogs and posed a risk in the area.

The 3.7-metre crocodile made its way to the Baines River after a flood hit the region earlier this year. It is just 250 meters from homes.

The animal repeatedly came out of the water, posing a severe threat to children and adults who were around the river. According to RMF24, the crocodile was also responsible for the deaths of many dogs belonging to residents of nearby villages.

After consultations with relevant services, it was decided to shoot the crocodile. This decision was made to eliminate the threat it posed to the local community's safety.

According to RMF FM, the police handed the crocodile to the residents, who prepared it according to traditional Aboriginal culinary recipes. Using recipes passed down through generations, they prepared the crocodile in a way that fully utilised its meat.

In an interview with ABC television, Sergeant Andrew McBride stated that soup was made from the crocodile's tail, some meat was grilled, and the remaining pieces were wrapped in banana leaves and cooked on coals covered with earth. "It was a traditional feast; many bellies were full," recounted the sergeant.

Director of Wildlife Operations DEPWS, Kristen Hay, emphasised that any water body in the Top End region can contain large and potentially dangerous crocodiles. "That's why we encourage everyone to follow the steps and swim only where signs permit swimming," she added.

Saltwater crocodiles are currently the largest living reptiles in the world and the largest predators both on land and in rivers. Both those living in fresh and brackish and salty waters have been strictly protected in Australia since 1971. It is estimated that around 100,000 crocodiles currently live in northern Australia.