North Queensland locals attempting to illegally catch crocodiles have been condemned by Environment Minister Steven Miles who says they are needlessly risking their lives.
The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) has begun investigating reports that crocodiles have been baited in Douglas, Hinchinbrook and Whitsunday shires in the past two months.
"It's frankly unbelievable that members of the public would contemplate doing this, it shows a complete disregard for personal and public safety" Dr Miles said.
There are concerns that people are doing it to boost their social media presence.
Dr Miles said EHP had tracked one of the cases via Facebook.
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"To attempt to attract them and to - heaven forbid - try to capture them is both illegal and seriously life-risking behaviour," Dr Miles said.
It is believed the attempts have been done by using baited lines.
Crocodiles are protected in the wild in Queensland, and a fine of up to $4876 can apply if a person is found guilty of feeding a crocodile.
Illegally catching crocodiles carries a fine of up to $27,427.
