A 14-foot crocodile was shot dead by rangers in northern Australia after it killed a 12-year-old girl, reigniting debates on crocodile population control in the Northern Territory.

The tragic incident marks the first fatal crocodile attack in the Northern Territory since 2018 and has brought the region's crocodile conservation strategies into sharp focus. The attack occurred weeks after the Territory approved a new 10-year plan to manage crocodile numbers by significantly increasing culling rates near human habitats. As authorities and local communities grapple with the balance between safety and ecological preservation, this latest fatality has underscored the increasing tensions in an area where human and crocodile populations coexist.

Wildlife rangers had been actively pursuing the crocodile responsible for the attack since it occurred last week in Mango Creek near Palumpa. The authorities were authorized by the region's traditional landowners to either trap or shoot the massive reptile, which was ultimately shot on Sunday. Police confirmed through analysis that the eliminated crocodile was indeed the one responsible for the girl's tragic death.

This deadly encounter has drawn attention to the Northern Territory's efforts to coexist with its significant crocodile population. Saltwater crocodiles, which are often revered as totems by many Indigenous Australians, pose a complex challenge for local authorities. The recent fatality has pushed the community and experts to revisit discussions on effective crocodile management strategies.

Northern Territory-based crocodile scientist Grahame Webb provided insights into the likely characteristics of the crocodile involved. Standing at a formidable 14 feet, Webb indicated that the crocodile would have to be male and at least 30 years old. He shared that in recent years, the crocodile population had begun to self-regulate through intra-species predation. 'They eat each other. The crocs have been controlling their own population. It's not really people that have been controlling them,' said Webb.

Despite the natural regulation, the Northern Territory government recently approved an ambitious 10-year plan aimed at reducing the number of crocodiles in proximity to human activities. The plan entails increasing the rate of culling from 300 to 1,200 crocodiles per year, reflecting concerns that the crocodile population could potentially become a severe threat to the small human population of around 250,000 living in an area the size of France and Spain combined.

According to experts, the Northern Territory is estimated to house approximately 100,000 crocodiles. This figure has rebounded remarkably from a mere 3,000 individuals back in 1971 when hunting these reptiles was outlawed. The return in numbers highlights both successful conservation efforts and the growing need for ongoing management strategies.

The incident has reignited the debate over whether more rigorous control of the crocodile population is necessary for ensuring public safety. The Northern Territory’s police minister emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant in areas inhabited by crocodiles. 'Living in a place where crocodiles occupy water places is a reminder to stay out of the water,' the minister remarked.

Senior Sgt. Erica Gibson confirmed that local police are continuing to provide support to everyone affected by the girl's death. This tragic incident has deeply impacted the local community, which remains in mourning while reassessing safety measures and protocols.

Crocodiles are highly mobile and their interactions with humans have led to periodic dangerous encounters throughout Australia. The balancing act between safeguarding human lives and preserving a unique and revered species remains a contentious subject. Authorities continue to review and adapt strategies in response to evolving circumstances and incidents like the one that claimed the young girl's life.