Beloved 5m saltwater crocodile ‘Big John’ found decapitated and entangled in fishing net in Far North Queensland

An iconic 5m saltwater crocodile known by its missing tail tip has been horrifically discovered decapitated and entangled in a fishing net in a remote Far North Queensland community.

The croc, affectionally referred to as ”Big John”, was found in Yarrabah Bay on Wednesday July 30, with its death sparking an investigation by Queensland wildlife authorities.

A spokesman for the Department of Environment and Tourism said possessing crocodile body parts, such as a skull, without a permit is illegal.

The offence carries a maximum penalty of $37,552. 

The department has urged anyone with information to contact authorities and can do so anonymously.

“Anyone with information can provide it anonymously by calling 1300 130 372 or by completing a wildlife complaint form via the DETSI website,” the spokesman said.

The apex predator had been monitored by Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji (GMY) Rangers for over four years and was called the “Crocodile Casanova of Buddbadoo” as he was often seen enjoying the sun with three female crocs in the Buddabadoo (Yarrabah) creek system.

A Gunggandji Aboriginal Corporation is believed to be assisting with the investigations into the croc’s death. 

A spokeswoman for the corporation said the croc had not become entangled in an abandoned net.

“We can confirm the net wasn’t a ghost net,” she said.

“The Gunggandji Aboriginal Corporation is assisting DETSI with the investigations as Big John was located in Yarrabah Bay, which is monitored by the Gunggandji Land and Sea Rangers.”

In a heartbreaking social media post last week, Gunggandji Aboriginal Corporation wrote: “With heavy hearts, we share the loss of an ancient and iconic presence — Big John, the saltwater crocodile who has watched over Buddabadoo for many years”.

“Big John was more than a crocodile. He was a guardian of our waterways, a link to our ancestral knowledge, and a living reminder of why we protect and care for our land and sea country.”

“Words can’t express the sadness we feel at his passing,” GAC added, sharing a poem about the crocodile.