Cassius, the world’s largest known crocodile kept in captivity, has died in Australia’s Queensland Wildlife Sanctuary. The giant saltwater crocodile, measuring about 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length and weighing close to a tonne, was estimated to be more than 110 years old, although its exact age remained unknown, according to a BBC report.
Cassius lived in the Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat on Green Island after being captured in Australia’s Northern Territory during the 1980s.
In a post on Facebook, Marineland Melanesia paid tribute to Cassius, calling him “our beloved partner” and “a beloved member of our family.”
The post reads, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend Cassius. He was more than just an alligator, he was a beloved member of our family and brought joy and companionship to his best friend George for over 37 years. George recently moved from Marineland to Cairns on October 5 after living for 52 years in an assisted care residence on Green Island.
“Cassius’s condition has deteriorated since October 15. He was very old and was believed to have outlived a wild crocodile. Cassius will be greatly missed, but our love and memories of him will always live on in our hearts. Thank you to everyone who met Cassius throughout his life and offered kindnesses along the way. Please be aware that we may be operating at a limited capacity over the next few days and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” he concluded.
Cassius’s life in the forest was full of adventures. Crocodiles were known to prey on cattle and even damage boat propellers before being caught. The sanctuary’s founder, George Craig, purchased her in 1987, and brought her to her new home on Green Island.
Known for its enormous size, Cassius earned a Guinness World Record in 2011 as the largest captive crocodile. According to Guinness World Records, “Cassius, an Australian saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), is the largest crocodile living in captivity at 5.48 m (17 ft 11.75 in). The Australian saltwater crocodile is the largest and The most fearsome specimens can live for more than 100 years, grow up to 7 meters (23 ft) and weigh more than 1 ton (1.1 tons).
