GEORGE TOWN: The saltwater crocodile captured on Teluk Bahang Beach near here on Tuesday (Sept 23) has been relocated to the Paya Indah Wetlands in Dengkil, Selangor.
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 measuring and weighing.
"At 9.30pm, the adult male crocodile, estimated to weigh 100kg and measuring 4m from snout to tail, was ready for the translocation process to the Wetlands.
"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 on Wednesday (Sept 24).
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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.
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Zaide added that the crocodile appeared weak when captured, but did not suffer any injuries and did not resist or act aggressively during the 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
