Queensland wildlife officer reveals alarming detail in crocodile capture after it was found in suburban chicken coop

Senior wildlife officer Jane Burns has revealed crocodiles become “highly mobile” after heavy rainfall, while describing the rescue of a crocodile in a chicken coop in north of Mackay this week.

Jane appeared on Sunrise on Wednesday — speaking about the unusual rescue — explaining crocodiles can be found away from their natural habitat during significant wet weather events.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Queensland wildlife officer reveals alarming detail in crocodile capture in chicken coop.

Stream the world’s best reality, entertainment and true crime shows for free on 7Bravo on 7plus >>

“The location itself is situated on the cape (Cape Hillsborough) – it’s a kilometre either side of the property to water – so it’s not that unusual when you do have high rainfall,” Jane said.

“They do get highly mobile and they can move around. They certainly don’t usually get found in backyards, but we do make people aware they can turn-up anywhere with unexpected weather.”

Jane confirmed the chicken coop was empty at the time — with the reptile not getting to either chicken or the eggs — with the family deciding staying overnight in the coop was the safest place.

“The chicken coop was empty — I believe it was probably a bit of commotion at the start — but they sent all chickens out — it was probably the safest spot for him,” she said.

The rescue made headlines this week, when the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) were called out to the home at Cape Hillsborough in Mackay about 9am last Friday.

“This is a good reminder to everyone in croc country that crocodiles can turn up in unexpected places, so it’s important to always be croc-wise, and report all sightings to DESI as soon as you can.”

Saltwater crocodiles can grow up to six metres in length and weigh up to, 1000kg when fully grown.

DESI rangers placed the crocodile in a large PVC tube for transport to the department’s facility in Mackay.

The croc will stay there until wildlife officers can secure a new home for the animal at a licensed farm or zoo.

Rangers confirmed all the chickens and pets living on the property were unharmed.