Five saltwater crocodile sightings have been confirmed in the Broome area in the past 14 days, closing multiple beaches following the latest encounters.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions confirmed the sightings after a 3m crocodile was spotted at Simpsons Beach at around 1pm last Friday, October 15.
Simpsons Beach, Demco Beach and Entrance Point were closed for 24 hours in response, as rangers patrolled the area.
The latest sighting followed confirmed reports at Broome Port and Dampier Creek on October 12, and Gantheaume Point on October 10.
A 3.5m crocodile was also spotted at Entrance Point on October 3 before being captured and relocated to Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park later that day.
A DBCA spokesperson said increased crocodile activity was not unusual as the weather warmed and the wet season approached.
“As the weather warms up and wet season approaches, crocodiles become more active and move around looking for new territory and it is not unusual to see higher numbers of crocodiles moving around at this time of year,” the spokesperson said.
The department said estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles were highly mobile and capable of travelling considerable distances through coastal marine environments, rivers and creek systems.
Their population has recovered significantly since the species became protected in WA in 1970, with sightings and removals from Broome’s crocodile control zones also increasing over time, the spokesperson said.
Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant near waterways, follow directions from rangers and warning signs, and avoid entering water where crocodiles may be present.
Crocodile sightings within the crocodile control zone can be reported to the Parks and Wildlife Service Broome office on 9195 5500.