In brief
Cassius, a massive saltwater crocodile that reached nearly 5.5 meters and weighed close to one tonne, has died at the age of approximately 110 years in a wildlife sanctuary in Australia. Known for his impressive size and past adventures, he was a beloved attraction and an important symbol in the conservation of wildlife.
The world's largest crocodile in captivity has died at a wildlife sanctuary in Australia, marking the end of an era for visitors and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Cassius, an enormous saltwater crocodile, measured nearly 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length and weighed close to one tonne. His exact age was uncertain, but he was believed to be at least 110 years old. Cassius made Queenslands' Green Island, located off the coast of Queensland, his home after being captured in the Northern Territory during the 1980s. In 2011, he was honored with the Guinness World Record for being the largest crocodile in captivity. The Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat shared the news of his passing on social media, where they described Cassius as "our beloved mate" and "a cherished member of our family." Before being placed in the sanctuary, Cassius experienced life in the wild, famously known for preying on cattle and damaging boat propellers. George Craig, the founder of the habitat, became Cassius's primary caregiver after purchasing him in 1987. According to the habitat's post, Cassius "brought joy and companionship to his best mate George for over 37 years."The sanctuary further revealed that Craig's recent relocation to Cairns had coincided with a decline in Cassius's health. "He was very old and believed to be living beyond the years of a wild croc," the statement read. The habitat expressed gratitude to “everyone who visited Cassius throughout his life and offered kindness,” noting limitations in their operations in the following days as they mourn the loss of their iconic inhabitant.
