Original story by Erin Parke, ABC News
Wildlife authorities are ramping up efforts to prevent a fatal crocodile attack amid a population spike in waters around Broome.
Crocodile trap in waters near Broome. A permanent crocodile trap has been installed in Dampier Creek amid an increase in crocodile numbers. Photo: ABC News, Erin Parke
The Department of Parks and Wildlife’s Dave Woods says for the first time, a $4,000 trap will be permanently installed at a popular fishing spot to help rangers deal with the increasing number of crocodiles in local waterways.
The five-metre aluminium contraption has a trapdoor system on it which is attached to a bait.
Night patrols are planned, and computer technology will be used to map where and when the animals come close to shore.
The program is part of a push to raise awareness of the risks of crocodiles, and Western Australia is looking to the Northern Territory for pointers.
“The Northern Territory have been the leaders in crocodile management for some time, and rather than reinventing the wheel, we’re pretty much drawing on what they’ve learnt,” Mr Woods said.
“We’re following a standard operating procedure that the Northern Territory Department of Parks and Wildlife is using.”
He said the department was going through a process of increasing skills and undertaking extra training.
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