The world’s largest crocodile has died in captivity at an Australian wildlife sanctuary.
Cassius was about 5.5 meters (18 feet) long, weighed about a ton, and was thought to be at least 110 years old, but no one knew for sure.
The giant saltwater crocodile has been living in an island reserve off the coast of Queensland ever since it was captured in Australia’s Northern Territory in the 1980s.
In 2011, he was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest crocodile in captivity.
Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat said in a social media post that Cassius was “our beloved companion” and “a member of our valued family.”
Cassius previously lived in the wild and was known to capture and eat cattle and attack boat propellers before being captured.
The habitat’s founder, George Craig, acquired Cassius in 1987, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.
According to the habitat, Cassius “bred joy and friendship to his best friend George for over 37 years.”
The habitat added that Craig moved to Cairns last month and Cassius’ health deteriorated soon after.
“He was very old and was believed to have lived beyond the age of any crocodile in the wild,” the post said.
The habitat also thanked “all those who have visited Cassias and extended their kindness throughout its lifetime,” and said the site may operate “on a limited scale for the next several days.” added.
