Massive three-metre saltwater crocodile is washed into a harbour by heavy rains – sparking a desperate search for the dangerous predator
- Reptile was spotted swimming in Queensland’s Gladstone Harbour on Sunday
- The saltwater crocodile was washed in from overflowing creek due to flooding
- Wildlife officers were called to scour the area but the crocodile was not found
A three-metre saltwater crocodile has startled locals after being washed into a harbour by heavy rains.
The huge reptile was spotted swimming in Queensland’s Gladstone Harbour on Sunday.
It is believed the crocodile was washed in from an overflowing creek following flooding earlier in the week.
The huge reptile was spotted swimming in Queensland’s Gladstone Harbour on Sunday
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science were called to scour the area for the saltwater crocodile due to the dangers he poses.
The crocodile disappeared by the time officers arrived to the creek and the harbour will be monitored until he is caught.
Crocodiles are quite common in Gladstone and surrounding areas, including coastal estuaries and rivers.
The department urges anyone who spots a crocodile to report it ensure he is caught and will take appropriate action.
Northern NSW and southern Queensland have experienced the ‘wettest week in decades’, according to meteorologists.
The Gold Coast recorded its highest ever monthly rainfall total with about 566mm falling in the first two weeks of the month. The previous monthly record was in December 2010 with 490mm.
It is believed the crocodile was washed in from an overflowing creek (pictured) following the flooding earlier this week