THE saltwater crocodile found off the Teluk Bahang beachfront in Penang is believed to be from another location outside the state.
This is the conclusion from the authorities as the island state is not renowned as a habitat for either freshwater or saltwater crocodile species.
Unlike Sarawak or Sabah, the sighting of the reptile is considered rare although they are seen at special farms or breeding grounds, including the largest one in the peninsular at Langkawi, Kedah.
The saltwater crocodile was successfully relocated to the Paya Indah Wetlands in Dengkil, Selangor, said state Wildlife and National Parks Department director Mohd Zaide Mohamed Zin.
The recent sighting caused resorts along the Batu Ferringhi tourism strip to advise their guests to refrain from entering the seafront yesterday until an all clear was given.
It was first sighted by the public near a hotel in Teluk Bahang.
“The adult male crocodile, estimated to weigh 100 kilogrammes and measuring four metres, was ready for translocation by 9.30pm (last night),” Mohd Zaide said.
He explained that the crocodile will undergo a mandatory one-week quarantine period at the wetlands facility.
“If no health issues are detected during quarantine, the animal will be released into a suitable natural habitat under our supervision,” he added.
Authorities estimate the crocodile is between 30 and 40 years old based on its substantial size.
The director believes the reptile strayed into the coastal area from a nearby river about a week ago.
“This incident is considered unusual, and we believe there are no other crocodiles currently in the Teluk Bahang area,” Mohd Zaide noted.
He reported that the crocodile appeared weak but was uninjured and displayed no aggression during handling – September 24, 2025.