Crocodile migration into Darwin Harbour mapped by DNA in Charles Darwin University study

A study using saltwater crocodile DNA has shone a new light on how the apex predators are migrating along coastlines of the Northern Territory, with researchers saying it could help inform how to manage the risk to people in populated areas. Key points: CDU research shows crocs travel large distances into Darwin Many come from floodplain rivers north-east of Darwin Researchers have backed current crocodile management methods Despite being patrolled, captured and removed by wildlife rangers, hundreds of the reptiles will make their way into Darwin Harbour in any given year. Scientists from Charles Darwin University believe the majority of crocodiles found in Darwin Harbour are hatched out of nests in rivers within 200 kilometres of the territory capital. "The vast majority of them came from the big floodplain rivers north-east of Darwin," Charles Darwin University researcher Professor Sam Banks said. Study backs current management methods Professor Banks said crocodiles were entering Darwin Harbour from a wide geographic area, which meant the current way of capturing crocodiles as they arrived was actually the most effective method.