SYDNEY, Australia: A saltwater crocodile that had been terrorizing a remote Australian community was ultimately transformed into a feast by the locals. The 3.6-metre (about 12-foot) reptile had been menacing the Bulla community in the Northern Territory, lunging at children and adults and preying on community dogs, according to a police statement.
The crocodile had migrated into a nearby river during floods earlier in the year, bringing it uncomfortably close to the homes in the area, which is located about six hours’ drive south of Darwin. As the crocodile continued its predatory behavior, local authorities consulted with elders and traditional landowners to address the growing threat.
On Tuesday, Northern Territory police shot and killed the crocodile, putting an end to its reign of terror. Following the shooting, the community prepared the crocodile for a feast in the traditional manner, embracing the opportunity to turn the predator into a source of sustenance.
Sergeant Andrew McBride told the Australian public broadcaster ABC that the crocodile was cooked in a variety of traditional ways. “I believe he was cooked up into crocodile tail soup, it was on the barbecue, a few pieces were wrapped up in banana leaves and cooked underground,” McBride explained. The event culminated in a large traditional feast, bringing the community together to share in the unique meal.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by remote communities in Australia when dealing with dangerous wildlife and highlights the importance of traditional practices and community cooperation in addressing such threats.
