In a heartfelt announcement, Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat has reported the death of Cassius, the world’s largest saltwater crocodile in captivity. The 18-foot-long crocodile, who resided on Green Island in the Great Barrier Reef, was believed to be over 110 years old, making him a significant figure in both wildlife conservation and local lore.
Cassius earned the title of the world’s largest crocodile in captivity from Guinness World Records in 2011, a testament to his impressive size and age. His passing was confirmed on Saturday, as a spokesperson expressed the deep sadness felt by staff and visitors alike: “He was more than just a crocodile; he was a cherished member of our family and brought joy and companionship to his best mate, George, for over 37 years.”
The decline in Cassius’s health began on October 15, leading to his eventual passing. Weighing over a ton, Cassius was captured in the 1980s, at an estimated age of 30 to 80 years, which meant he had already surpassed the typical lifespan of wild crocodiles.
Toody Scott, who was intimately involved in Cassius’s care, described him as a “sweetheart,” noting, “He had these big eyes that you’d look into and you could look into his soul.” In a 2011 interview, Scott praised Cassius’s gentle nature, despite the inherent cunning that comes with being a crocodile. “His eyes are so big and dreamy you could get lost in them forever,” he remarked, emphasizing the special bond between them.
Cassius’s life was marked by resilience, having survived injuries such as a missing snout and a portion of his tail, which were common among crocodiles due to territorial disputes in the wild. These injuries, however, never detracted from his record-breaking status, as they were not factored into his length measurements.
Born around 1903, Cassius was transferred to the zoo in 1987, traveling from the Finniss River in the Northern Territory of Australia. His extraordinary life and legacy have left a lasting impact on those who cared for him and the countless visitors who came to see him.
“Cassius will be deeply missed, but our love and memories of him will remain in our hearts forever,” said the Marineland Melanesia team, as they honor the memory of a remarkable creature who brought joy to many.
