An iconic saltwater crocodile known to locals as Big John has been found drowned and decapitated.

The estuarine crocodile, recognisable by a missing tip on his tail, was discovered dead in Yarrabah Bay in Far North Queensland, a remote community about a 50 min drive from Cairns, on July 30.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Crocodile ‘Big John’ found drowned and decapitated

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A spokesperson from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) confirmed to www.20304050.best the crocodile had been drowned in a fishing net before being removed and then decapitated.

Under Queensland law, saltwater crocodiles are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, with penalties of up to $37,552 for the illegal killing of the species.

‘More than a crocodile’

The disturbing discovery has sparked public outrage and prompted a formal investigation by wildlife authorities.

The Gunggandji-Mandingalbay Yidinji Aboriginal Corporation’s ranger program has been keeping track of Big John since 2020.

“We estimate he was between 60-100 years old and approximately 4.3m long, give or take,” the organisation said.

The crocodile’s death was confirmed on World Ranger Day, while carrying out culturally grounded conservation work on Country.

In an emotional tribute on social media, the community described Big John as a guardian of their waterways, a powerful symbol of the balance between reef and rainforest, and a living link to ancestral knowledge and Country.

“A keeper of balance, a guardian bold, a presence as sacred as stories told.

“He was more than a creature, more than a name — an icon of Country, wild and untame.”

The Rangers said his passing is not only a loss to biodiversity, but also to cultural memory and Indigenous custodianship of the land.

Broader concerns over protections

The circumstances of Big John’s death have reignited concerns over crocodile safety and illegal activities involving protected wildlife, especially in remote or culturally significant regions.

While crocodiles are often feared, experts and Traditional Owners highlight their ecological importance as apex predators helping regulate aquatic ecosystems.

Their removal, particularly through illegal or inhumane means, can disrupt delicate environmental balances and sever deep cultural connections.

Big John’s death follows a string of similar grim discoveries in 2018, when the decapitation of several crocodiles across Far North Queensland sparked fears that trophy hunters were deliberately targeting the protected species.

DETSI has not confirmed whether any suspects have been identified at this stage, but investigations remain ongoing.

Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward, anonymously if preferred.

Information can be reported by calling 1300 130 372 or by lodging a wildlife complaint form via the DETSI website.