What happened to the "Old Faithful" crocodile?

The "Old Faithful" crocodile, a 4-meter-long saltwater crocodile, was recently transported over 1,600km from its northern Queensland habitat to Australia Zoo.

Why are traditional owners upset about the "Old Faithful" crocodile's relocation?

Traditional owners of the Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, where the "Old Faithful" crocodile was captured, say they were not consulted and are "very upset" that the iconic animal was taken so far from its home.

How was the "Old Faithful" crocodile previously featured?

The "Old Faithful" crocodile was previously featured in an episode of the TV series "The Crocodile Hunter" in the mid-1990s, where Steve Irwin "hazed" the apex predator in an effort to instill fear of humans.

Home / Environment / Iconic Crocodile Relocated Over 1,600km to Australia Zoo Amid Controversy

Iconic Crocodile Relocated Over 1,600km to Australia Zoo Amid Controversy

3 Nov

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Summary

"Old Faithful" crocodile, over 4 meters long, transported to Australia Zoo
Traditional owners "very upset" by removal from northern Queensland habitat
Conservationists describe relocation as a "cover-up" lacking transparency

Iconic Crocodile Relocated Over 1,600km to Australia Zoo Amid Controversy

In a controversial move, an iconic saltwater crocodile known as "Old Faithful" has been transported over 1,600km from its northern Queensland habitat to Australia Zoo, the wildlife facility made famous by the late Steve Irwin. The relocation, which occurred almost two months ago, has drawn the ire of traditional owners who say they were not consulted and are "very upset" by the outcome.

The crocodile, which measures longer than 4 meters, was previously featured in an episode of "The Crocodile Hunter" in the mid-1990s, where Irwin "hazed" the apex predator in an effort to instill fear of humans. This pioneering experiment appeared successful for nearly two decades, allowing the crocodile and humans to coexist.