Australian crocodiles face 'jail'

By Phil Mercer
BBC News, Sydney

Jails for rogue crocs could be set up at zoos and farms

Rogue crocodiles could be sent to "reptile jails" under a plan being considered by the Queensland state government in Australia.

It follows the capture of a large crocodile, which had been spotted on the beaches of Magnetic Island, a popular tourist resort.

Most crocodiles that menace populated areas are caught and set free in more remote parts.

Last month a man was killed by a crocodile in Queensland.

The policy of capturing and setting free crocodiles that menace popular tourist areas is now under review after officials moved a problem croc from Australia's tropical north to waters off Townsville.

It turned up on beaches popular with tourists, causing much dismay.

The authorities are now thinking about sending larger numbers of rogue animals off into captivity instead of being relocated. The state government has said that reptile jails could be established at farms and zoos.

A month ago a Scottish-born war veteran was killed by a 14ft crocodile in northern Queensland.