Burt, star croc of ‘Crocodile Dundee,’ dies at 90 in Northern Australia

Burt, the legendary saltwater crocodile who shot to fame in the 1986 film Crocodile Dundee, has passed away at the age of 90. Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, where he had lived since 2008, confirmed his death in a social media post, describing it as "the end of an incredible era." The aquarium shared that Burt had passed peacefully over the weekend, marking the close of a remarkable chapter in both the world of Australian wildlife and cinema.

From the Reynolds River to Hollywood

Burt was captured in the 1980s from the Reynolds River in the Northern Territory. He soon became one of the most recognised crocodiles globally, largely thanks to his role in Crocodile Dundee. In the film, Burt appears in a brief but memorable moment when Linda Kozlowski's character, Sue Charlton, is attacked by a crocodile while refilling her water bottle at a watering hole. Paul Hogan's character, Mick Dundee, rescues her, but the crocodile lunging from the water was Burt.

Though Burt’s scene was short, it was crucial in showcasing Australia’s rugged wildlife. Crocosaurus Cove paid tribute to the reptile, noting, “Burt became one of the most recognised crocodiles in the world, appearing in Crocodile Dundee and helping to shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife.”

A "Confirmed Bachelor" with a Fiery Temperament

Burt’s personality was as memorable as his size. The massive saltwater crocodile, estimated to be more than 5 meters (16 feet) long, was known for his independent nature, which earned him the title of "confirmed bachelor." Crocosaurus Cove wrote in a social media post, “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor — an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm.”

Despite his challenging temperament, which earned him respect from both his caretakers and visitors, Burt was an embodiment of the wild, untamed spirit of saltwater crocodiles. “His fiery temperament earned him the respect of his caretakers and visitors alike, as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile,” the aquarium explained. Visitors often admired Burt for his commanding presence and size, and he became an important figure in wildlife education at the park.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crocosaurus Cove | Darwin NT (@crocosauruscove)

A Force of Nature

Describing Burt as more than just a crocodile, Crocosaurus Cove stated, “Burt was truly one of a kind. He wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures.” His presence at the park helped raise awareness about crocodiles, and his life was an ongoing testament to the resilience and strength of these apex predators.

Over the years, Burt garnered fame beyond his film role. After Crocodile Dundee, Burt’s quirky reputation as a “psychic” animal gained attention when he allegedly predicted the outcomes of major events, including elections and sporting matches — though with mixed results.

A Lasting Legacy

Crocosaurus Cove also plans to honour Burt’s memory with a commemorative sign at the park. This sign will “celebrate his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park,” according to the aquarium. This tribute will serve as a reminder of Burt’s significant role in educating the public about crocodiles and Australia’s unique wildlife.

Burt’s passing is seen as the end of a remarkable era for Crocosaurus Cove, and his legacy will live on. The park, which is home to a unique "Cage of Death" crocodile dive, plans to continue its conservation efforts in his memory. The aquarium’s team expressed gratitude for the public’s support over the years, urging people to remember the importance of wildlife conservation.

Burt’s long life exceeded the average lifespan of saltwater crocodiles, which typically live over 70 years. His remarkable age and ability to thrive at Crocosaurus Cove for over a decade made him a symbol of the strength and longevity of these remarkable creatures.

In addition to his famous role in Crocodile Dundee, Burt’s natural environment was an important aspect of his identity, reminding people of the wild, untamed landscapes of Australia’s Top End. He will be remembered not only as a film star but as an enduring symbol of the power of nature.

Burt’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the need for wildlife conservation efforts, particularly for species such as the saltwater crocodile, which can grow to over 6 meters in length and weigh more than 1,000 kilograms. With over 100,000 saltwater crocodiles hunting along the coasts and rivers of northern Australia, these creatures remain an integral part of the country’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

As Crocosaurus Cove reflects on Burt’s extraordinary life, they urge the public to continue to appreciate and protect Australia’s wildlife, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the majesty of creatures like Burt for years to come.