Crocodiles in space

From a Queensland government media release dated 11 December 2003: Environment Minister Dean Wells today launched a new Environmental Protection Agency website to highlight research involving the tracking by satellite of six large estuarine crocodiles as part of a world-first research project.

Mr Wells said the website would carry data from the 10-month trial monitoring an adult male and female crocodile from the Endeavour River near Cooktown and four adult males from the Nesbit River on Cape York Peninsula, to determine their spatial requirements and how they use their habitat.

“This is the first time that satellite transmitters have been fitted to estuarine crocodiles,” Mr Wells said.

“Using glue and some minor surgery, the researchers attached the satellite tracking equipment to the large scales of the nuchal shield between the crocodiles’ shoulders.

“This research is designed to provide the QPWS with information that will help manage estuarine crocodiles in Queensland, and across their natural range throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

“Tracking information about the six crocodiles, named Charles, Harriett, Banana, Nesbit, Bob and SuperCroc, is now freely available to the public on the EPA website.