Two boys accused of bashing giant crocodile with metal pole after zoo break-in
Two boys will front Perth Children’s Court on Tuesday accused of breaking into Perth Zoo and bashing a crocodile with a metal pole.
The alleged attack occurred on Sunday, according to Perth Zoo, which said the crocodile sustained minor injuries and was being closely monitored by veterinary staff.
Perth Zoo’s resident saltwater crocodile, Dangalabba, is about 4.5 metres long and weighs approximately 400kg, and estimated to be around 40 years old.
The ‘rescue crocodile’ had lived at a crocodile farm in Broome for many years after being removed from Darwin Harbour by wildlife officers over fears he posed a risk to public safety.
The reptile’s enclosure was listed as ‘off display’ on the zoo’s website on Tuesday.
Perth Zoo told the Daily Mail staff had discovered on Sunday evening that someone had allegedly entered a restricted back-of-house area of the crocodile habitat.
‘An immediate inspection confirmed that unauthorised individuals had gained access to the Estuarine Crocodile habitat,’ a spokesman said.
‘This was a reckless and irresponsible act that placed both animal welfare and human safety at significant risk.
Perth Zoo is home to one resident saltwater crocodile named Dangalabba (pictured), a 4.5-metre giant weighing about 400kg
‘As a result of the incident, the crocodile sustained minor injuries. Our veterinary team and dedicated animal care staff are closely monitoring him and providing any treatment required to support his recovery.’
The spokesman said WA Police were notified immediately and that two boys were subsequently arrested following an investigation.
‘Animal welfare underpins everything we do at Perth Zoo, and we are deeply disappointed by this incident,’ the statement read.
‘Any unlawful intrusion into animal habitats places the welfare of our animals, as well as the safety of individuals, at risk.’
Perth Zoo said a range of security measures was in place across the site, including physical controls, surveillance systems and after-hours monitoring. It is reviewing the incident.
