Crocodile captured at Penang beach relocated to Paya Indah Wetlands
Prior to the relocation, the crocodile was taken to Penang National Park for examination, as well as for measurements and weighing.
GEORGE TOWN - The saltwater crocodile captured at the Teluk Bahang Beach near here yesterday has been relocated to the Paya Indah Wetlands (PIW) in Dengkil, Selangor, before it is released into its natural habitat.
Penang Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) Director Mohd Zaide Mohamed Zin said that prior to the relocation, the crocodile was taken to Penang National Park for examination, as well as for measurements and weighing.
"At 9.30 pm, the adult male crocodile, estimated to weigh 100 kilogrammes and measuring four metres from snout to tail, was ready for the translocation process to PIW.
"The reptile will undergo a one-week quarantine period there, and if no problems arise, it will be released into its natural habitat nearby under Perhilitan's supervision,” he said when contacted today.
He added that based on its size, the crocodile is estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old and is believed to have strayed from a nearby river, not far from the coastal area.
"The crocodile is thought to have wandered into Teluk Bahang about a week ago from a nearby river. Authorities believe there are no other crocodiles in the area, as this situation is unusual, and it seems that the reptile strayed,” he said.
Mohd Zaide added that the crocodile appeared weak when captured, but did not suffer any injuries and did not resist or act aggressively during its examination.
Yesterday, the saltwater crocodile's appearance on the beach behind a hotel in Teluk Bahang startled the public, including tourists, before the authorities successfully captured the reptile. - BERNAMA
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