Crocodile Sighting Triggers Emergency Response in Newcastle
Newcastle police have launched a major operation after reports of crocodile sightings in a creek at Wallsend, with up to three of the reptiles potentially on the loose. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday evening, February 28, 2026, has drawn widespread attention, prompting authorities to call in reptile experts and establish a security perimeter.
Expert Teams Mobilised for Crocodile Removal
Officers from Newcastle police were dispatched to Federal Park in Wallsend around 7pm, where they confirmed the presence of at least one crocodile estimated to be about a metre long. Deputy lord mayor Declan Clausen took to social media to announce that wildlife rescuers and council officials were actively responding to the discovery. WIRES and an expert from the nearby Australian Reptile Park were summoned to assist in the removal efforts, with teams strategising on-site as the sun set.
Photographer Selwyn Cox captured scenes of residents gathering at the creek, eager to catch a glimpse of the unusual visitors. "It's not every day you see crocodiles in Newcastle," one onlooker remarked, highlighting the rarity of such an event in the urban area.
Multiple Crocodiles Reported, Search Intensifies
Police have indicated that as many as three crocodiles may be involved, based on eyewitness accounts throughout the day. A local resident, who regularly fishes in the area, described seeing one larger crocodile over a metre long, a second around a metre, and a third juvenile. Only one crocodile had been accounted for by approximately 8pm, leaving authorities concerned about the others.
The creek bed is described as mostly shallow, with water depths under a metre, complicating the search. A State Emergency Services crew was en route by 8.15pm to bolster the operation, with police expected to remain on the scene overnight to monitor the situation.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
It remains unclear how the crocodiles ended up in the creek, with police stating the investigation is ongoing. "We've established a perimeter to prevent any escape, but we're still determining how long they've been here," a police spokesman explained. The evolving situation has sparked curiosity and concern among locals, with photos and videos of the crocodile circulating widely online and shared by Newcastle councillors.
As the search continues, authorities urge residents to maintain a safe distance and report any further sightings. This incident underscores the unexpected challenges of urban wildlife management in Australia.
