Conservation of crocodiles

Saltwater crocodiles are protected in the Northern Territory (NT).

You can't take or interfere with a crocodile without a permit.

Permits may be given to ranger groups, shires or land managers to trap or shoot problem crocodiles where there is a clear need to do so and there is no other alternative.

You can't possess or trade in live or dead crocodiles, crocodile eggs or parts of crocodiles without a permit.

The saltwater crocodile management program PDF (2.0 MB) by the NT Government helps the NT use and look after these animals.

It aims for all of the following:

• to maintain a large and healthy population of saltwater crocodiles living in their natural habitat
• to promote the saltwater crocodile as a natural resource that has economic use and benefit if used sustainably
• to respect the cultural values of saltwater crocodiles
• to manage concentrated numbers in areas where there is a high risk to people, livestock and pets
• to provide crocodile awareness and information in parks, reserves and conservation areas
• to work with other government groups, business and industry to make Territorians and visitors aware of crocodiles
• encourage everyone to be responsible in activities near the natural environment of saltwater crocodiles.

The saltwater crocodile management program is annually monitored and updated.

Read the NT Government's crocodile monitoring reports.