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Wildlife officers sent to scene of freshwater croc attack

The Queensland Department of Environment and Science says it is investigating a freshwater crocodile attack on a man in the state’s remote northwest.

May 17, 2022, updated May 17, 2022

The man in his 40s suffered injuries to his arms and legs after trying to escape the reptile while swimming at Lawn Hill, north of Mount Isa, on Sunday.

The department is now sending wildlife officers to the area to conduct an assessment to decide if any further action is needed to protect the public.

Northern Wildlife Operations Manager Michael Joyce said freshwater crocodile attacks on humans are rare.

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“Freshwater crocodiles are smaller and less aggressive than estuarine crocodiles and will usually flee at the first sight of people approaching,” he said.

“If they feel cornered or threatened they may act defensively, which is what may have happened when the man was bitten.”

Freshwater crocodiles are common in the region, particularly around Lake Moondarra and Boodjamulla National Park where there are signs warning people of their presence.

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