Massive 4.9m croc captured near popular Northern Territory swimming, camping spot

Two enormous crocodiles – one reaching almost 5m in length – have been removed by rangers downstream from a popular Northern Territory swimming hole and camping spot.

Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife posted pictures of the saltwater crocodiles, measuring 4.9m and 4.1m in length, that were safely removed from an area near Wangi Falls.

The picnic area is located in the Litchfield National Park – about 130km south of Darwin – and is a popular destination for campers.

While the 4.9m crocodile was relocated to a farm, rangers said it was a timely reminder swimming should only occur in designated safe areas.

That figure comes close to the length of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodile held in captivity, Cassius, who clocked in at 5.48m.

On average, rangers have caught on average one crocodile every day in the Top End since the New Year.

“Where there is water, there is always a chance a crocodile is nearby,” a Parks and Wildlife spokesman warned.

“With crocodile movement increasing at this time of year, it’s important to always Be Crocwise around all waterways, including small creeks and flooded urban drains during the wet season.”

The Northern Territory has the world’s largest saltwater population with an estimated 100,000 creatures inhabiting the Top End.

Saltwater crocodiles can grow up to 6m in length and are found along the Northern Territory coastline and waterways.

They usually eat fish, “but will eat just about anything” including large animals such as cows, boars, buffaloes and smaller and smaller ones like turtles, birds and crabs, according to northernterritory.com.

A Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife spokesman said while crocodiles more than 4m in length were considered a large animal, it was common to find that sized animal in waterways throughout the Top End.

The spokesman said it was not safe to swim at Wangi Falls during the wet season it was closed for swimming.

“Crocodiles can move through the creek systems undetected,” a spokesman said.

“The crocodile traps are placed downstream from the falls and are … checked to ensure public safety.”

Rangers captured 241 crocodiles across the Top End last year and carry out a saltwater crocodile management plan around crocodile habitat areas including Darwin Harbour and the Katherine River.

The program reduces the threat of a crocodile attack and warns the community about the potential presence of any prehistoric creatures.