World’s largest crocodile in captivity dies

Queensland | Desk: The world’s largest crocodile, a remarkable 110-year-old male named Cassius, has passed away. This impressive saltwater crocodile made headlines for his size and personality during his long life. Cassius was nearly 5.5m (18ft) long, weighed nearly one tonne.

Cassius was captured in the Northern Territory of Australia in the 1980s and later moved to Queensland, where he became a key attraction. His notoriety stemmed not only from his massive size—approximately five meters long and weighing around one ton—but also from his bold behavior, which included attacking cattle and even vehicles of tourists who ventured too close to his territory.

In 2011, Cassius earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest crocodile in captivity, a title that solidified his status as a living legend. Although precise details about his age were not documented, his 110 years made him a remarkable figure in crocodile conservation.

Cassius briefly lost his title to Lolong, a crocodile from the Philippines that measured 20 feet 3 inches and was captured in Agusan del Sur, Mindanao, in the same year. However, Cassius reclaimed the title in 2013 following Lolong’s death.

Cassius was not just a tourist attraction; he was also a beloved resident of Marineland Melanesia, a crocodile conservation organization. In an emotional tribute on social media, the organization wrote, “Cassius was our dear friend and a proud member of our family.” His legacy will be remembered by both those who knew him and the countless visitors who marveled at his size and strength.