A crocodile found in a suburban Newcastle creek has been named “Wally” by locals, as plans are confirmed to relocate the animal in the coming months.
The juvenile freshwater reptile was captured on 1 March, following a tense search of Ironbark Creek at Wallsend.
Wally, meanwhile, was chosen in honour of Wallsend, where he was located.
The unusual discovery prompted a swift response, with Australian Reptile Park experts launching a coordinated effort to seek and safely capture the animal.
The operation followed a tense 48-hour search, with the team finally securing the crocodile, which is not native to NSW.
Since then, the Australian Reptile Park has been caring for the animal, acting as temporary custodians while authorities determine a permanent home.
Park manager Billy Collett said the team stepped in at a critical time for the croc’s survival.
“If we didn’t catch him, he literally would have perished as it gets way too cold down here,” he explained.
“The beautiful little freshie has settled well.”
Mr Collett said Wally had adjusted well to life in quarantine.
“The freshie is settled right into his quarantine enclosure here at the Australian Reptile Park,” he added.
“He’s doing really well, he’s feeding, he’s got a bit of attitude and everything’s looking really good.”
Despite hopes from staff, the park will not be the crocodile’s long-term home.
“We were absolutely gutted to find out the authorities have found a new home for the croc, so for the mean time we’re gonna be the best foster parents he could hope for,” Mr Collett said.
Initial fears that more may have been lurking in the creek have since been dismissed, with no other animals located during follow-up searches.
Authorities are still working to determine how the crocodile ended up in the waterway, with illegal dumping of an exotic pet considered the most likely explanation.
Mr Collett also praised the role of the community in the rescue.
“To the locals that spotted him, thank you for reporting him because you guys reporting him really helped save that crocodile’s life,” he said.
Wally is expected to remain in temporary care before being transferred interstate to a more suitable climate.
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