Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile that gained global fame for his role in the 1986 adventure comedy hit, Crocodile Dundee, is dead. Burt was reportedly around 90 years old and he passed away at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, Australia.
About 5 meters, or roughly 16 feet, tall and weighing around 700 kg (1,540 pounds), Burt was not just a movie star but also a symbol of Australia’s diverse wildlife.
Keepers at Crocosaurus Cove Darwin were quoted by 9News stating:
“Burt's life story is one of strength, resilience, and a personality as bold as the Top End itself.”
"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."
Burt was taken from the Reynolds River in the 1980s and he grew into an exceptionally large crocodile in no time. He had a hostile temperament and was one of the largest captive saltwater crocodiles. Burt would soon become a star in the film industry and visitors regularly dropped by to see him at Crocosaurus Cove since 2008.
"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."
Details about Burt
Few wild animals are as awe-inspiring as crocodiles, especially the larger ones. Two such known giants were Lolong and Burt.
Burt's big breakthrough was the film, Crocodile Dundee, released in 1986. The film remains the highest grossing Australian production of all time, and played an important role in establishing Australia's image as a country with impressive desert and wildlife landscapes. Burt had much to do with the film's success.
During his lifetime, he mesmerized audiences around the world in countless numbers of documentaries and educational programs, showcasing the majesty of crocodiles. His presence at Crocosaurus Cove attracted thousands of visitors who were fascinated by his size and personality during daily feedings and exhibitions.
Lolong, another saltwater predator, was the largest crocodile in captivity according to Guinness World Records. He reached a length of 6.17 meters (20 feet, 3 inches) and weighed 1,075 kilograms (2,370 pounds). Lolong was specifically an adult male saltwater crocodile that was measured by the British crocodile expert Adam Britton. The measurements were recognized by the Guinness World Records in June 2012. He tragically passed away on February 10, 2013.
The legacy of Cassius
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While Lolong was the largest crocodile ever measured, another Australian saltwater crocodile named Cassius had a claim to fame. Cassius was 5.48 meters long (17 feet, 11.75 inches) and considered the largest captive living crocodile until his death on November 2, 2024. Cassius had lived at Marineland Melanesia on Green Island since his capture in 1984, because he had an aggressive behavior and attacked cattle. Cassius was estimated to be over 110 years old when he died, which speaks volumes of the potential longevity of saltwater crocodiles.
Following Lolong's death, Cassius regained the title of the largest captive crocodile. Caretakers transferred him to assistive care shortly before death owing to poor health conditions. As per reports, he lead a healthy life for decades and had become such a popular figure among visitors and staff.
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