Crocodiles and Coexistence: Balancing Safety and Conservation in Darwin

In Darwin, home to an estimated 100,000 saltwater crocodiles, authorities strive to maintain safety as these apex predators thrive. Following a near-extinction event decades ago, the protection status has led to dramatic population growth, posing a dilemma for wildlife management. Education and removal strategies coexist with crocodile farming for luxury goods, igniting debates on eco-management, public safety, and cultural heritage.

With dawn breaking over Darwin Harbour, Kelly Ewin, a government ranger tasked with handling crocodiles, finds himself on a fragile floating trap. Above him, storm clouds loom, yet the air is punctuated with the unsettling splashes coming from the net. “You get pretty much zero chances with these guys,” he warns, as he readies to catch one of the 100,000 wild saltwater crocodiles in Australia’s Northern Territory.

Decades ago, saltwater crocodiles faced near extinction due to unchecked hunting. Yet following legislation that banned hunting in 1971, their numbers exploded, leading to new challenges in Darwin, a coastal city that sits amidst fertile croc habitats. The territory is now tightly engaged in the balancing act of ensuring public safety while managing a thriving croc population.

Prof. Grahame Webb emphasizes the importance of ongoing public support for crocodile conservation, stating that significant public backlash could lead to hasty political decisions. Crocodiles are territorial and aggressive, and while serious incidents remain rare, reports of fatalities—like the tragic incident involving a 12-year-old last year—prompt renewed discussions on how best to coexist with these ancient predators.

During breeding season, when crocodiles are particularly active, Kelly and his team investigate 24 traps deployed around Darwin, striving to lessen the chances of dangerous encounters. “It’s our job to try and keep people as safe as we can,” says Ewin. Once captured, most of the crocodiles are euthanized, as relocating them often leads to their return to urban waterways.

Education plays a crucial role in the strategy. The “Be Crocwise” program teaches local schoolchildren about the potential dangers and responsible behaviors when near crocodile habitats. This successful initiative has attracted interest from Florida and the Philippines as a potential model for their own regions.

Culling of crocodiles remains contentious, despite a recent increase in the allowed quota. The 10-year crocodile management plan enables the elimination of up to 1,200 crocodiles annually—indicative of the delicate line authorities tread between conservation and public safety.

Visitors flock to Northern Territory for adrenaline-fueled crocodile experiences, such as "croc jumping" alongside fishing and eco-tours. Meanwhile, crocodile farming supports the economy, especially as high-end fashion brands seek authentic reptile skins. This economic dimension fosters tolerance for the species while Indigenous communities, integral to croc management, seek their share of the commercial benefits.

Yet, crocodile farming faces dissent from activists concerned for the welfare of these sentient creatures, often confined to small pens. Not all stakeholders align on the best paths forward for crocs and humans alike, as highlighted by Prof. Webb’s stark warning: “If you go swimming in the Adelaide River next to Darwin, there’s a 100% chance you’ll be killed.”

Navigating these complex issues, the Northern Territory continues to balance its identity as “crocodile country,” striving for a practical coexistence between humans and one of nature's most formidable predators, ensuring their survival in an ever-evolving landscape.