Cassius, world’s longest crocodile dies

The world’s largest saltwater crocodile in captivity, Cassius, has died.

The reptile, which is thought to be have been more than 110 years old, was 5.48m in length and weighed more than 1300kg.

Cassius spent his life on Green Island in Far North Queensland. It’s believed the “big, old, gnarly crocodile” was between 30 and 80 years of age when he was first captured in the Northern Territory in 1984. He was taken to Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat, where he remained in captivity.

The saltwater crocodile was officially recognised as the world’s largest crocodile in captivity by the Guinness World Records in 2011, though temporarily lost it to another crocodile, Lolong, a year later. Cassius reclaimed the title in 2013 after Lolong’s death.

The saltwater crocodile is remembered as being a “beloved mate” by the team at the Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat.

“He was more than just a crocodile,” a social media post read. “He was a cherished member of our family and brought joy and companionship to his best mate George for over 37 years.”

George was relocated to Cairns on October 5, and Cassius quickly deteriorated after his departure.

“He was very old and believed to be living beyond the years of a wild croc,” the team at crocodile habitat wrote. “Cassius will be deeply missed, but our love and memories of him will remain in our hearts forever.”