The legendary crocodile that starred in the hit film Crocodile Dundee has passed away.
Burt, the massive 5.1-metre croc who featured in the 1986 movie, died “peacefully” in captivity in Darwin, aged “over 90 years old”. Crocosaurus Cove, the crocodile park and aquarium where Burt had been living since 2008, shared the news of his passing.
Burt, who shot to fame as one of the world’s most recognised reptiles due to the international success of Crocodile Dundee – still the top-earning Australian film ever – has an inspiring backstory. The Crocosaurus Cove shared details about how Burt was caught in the early 1980s, prior to his blockbuster appearance with Hogan.
The team at the Cove delivered an emotional homage to Burt on Monday (December 23), saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic Saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee. Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”
The Crocodile Dundee star died over the weekend (
Image:
Crocosaurus Cove Darwin/ Facebook)
“Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience, and a personality as bold as the Top End itself. Captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River, 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.”
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They added: “In 2008, Burt made his way to Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile conservation. Known for his independent streak, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – a trait he demonstrated during his earlier years at a crocodile farm. 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 team continued: “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. While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years. Visitors from around the globe marvelled at his impressive size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.
“The team at Crocosaurus Cove would like to thank everyone who visited Burt and helped celebrate his remarkable life. As we mourn his loss, we are reminded of the vital role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations.”
Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby also paid tribute to Burt, describing the late crocodile as “a true icon of the Territory”. She added: “It’s very sad to hear… I think that Territorians right across the Territory would be feeling quite sad about this.”
Burt was a star in his own right, featuring alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the original Crocodile Dundee film. He also served as the inspiration for the digital crocodile in the 2007 movie Rogue.
