The world's largest crocodile in captivity has passed away at a wildlife sanctuary in Australia, marking the end of an era for one of the most recognizable reptiles in the world. Cassius, a massive saltwater crocodile, measured nearly 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length and weighed close to one tonne. While it is believed that he was at least 110 years old, the exact age remains uncertain.
Cassius spent decades at Marineland Melanesia, an attraction located on Green Island, part of the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland. His life began in the wild, where he gained notoriety for preying on cattle and engaging with boat propellers before being captured in the Northern Territory during the 1980s. In 2011, he was awarded the Guinness World Record for his impressive size.
In a heartfelt social media tribute, the wildlife habitat expressed their mourning, describing Cassius as "our beloved mate" and a "cherished member of our family." Renowned for his long-standing bond with habitat founder George Craig, who has cared for him since his acquisition in 1987, Cassius was noted to have brought joy and companionship to Craig for over 37 years.
However, following Craig's relocation to Cairns last month, reports indicate Cassius's health began to decline. The sanctuary reflected on his age, acknowledging that he had lived beyond the typical lifespan of wild crocodiles. In their statement, they also expressed gratitude to all who visited Cassius throughout his remarkable life and noted that the facility may operate in a limited capacity for the next few days as they cope with the loss.
Cassius's passing has sparked discussions on the wider implications of crocodile captivity, the ethics of wildlife tourism, and the conservation of crocodiles globally.
