In brief
Cassius, an iconic figure and tourist attraction, was nearly 5.5 meters long and over a ton in weight, celebrated for his remarkable journey from the wild to a life in sanctuary care.
The world’s largest crocodile in captivity, Cassius, has passed away at the Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat on Green Island, Australia. Measuring nearly 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length and weighing almost a tonne, Cassius was believed to be at least 110 years old. He was caught in the Northern Territory of Australia during the 1980s and had since been a cherished attraction in the Great Barrier Reef region. In 2011, he earned the honor of being recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest crocodile in captivity.The wildlife sanctuary made an emotional announcement on social media, describing Cassius as "our beloved mate" and a treasured family member. Before his captivity, Cassius was notorious in the wild for his ferocity, famously known for catching and devouring cattle and challenging boat propellers. He was acquired by the sanctuary's founder, George Craig, in 1987, where he quickly became a beloved companion.Reportedly, Cassius brought immense joy to Craig for more than 37 years. With Craig's recent relocation to Cairns, Cassius’s health began to decline shortly thereafter, ultimately leading to his passing. The sanctuary acknowledged the natural aging process, stating that Cassius was well past the average lifespan of a wild crocodile. They expressed gratitude to all who visited and cared for Cassius throughout the years and informed the public that operations may be limited in the coming days as they mourn this legendary reptile.
