Sad loss of df Bert the Saltwater crocodile from Crocodille Dundee fame
Credit: Shutterstock: ChameleonsEye
Australia has bid farewell to one of its most beloved residents, Burt, the saltwater crocodile who captured hearts and imaginations in the iconic 1986 film Crocodile Dundee.
At an estimated age of over 90, Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, leaving behind a legacy that has made him an enduring symbol of Australia’s wild, untamed spirit.
Saltwater crocodile goes from Australian Outback to global stardom
Burt’s journey began in the 1980s when he was captured in the Reynolds River of the Northern Territory. His sheer size and commanding presence made him the perfect choice for Crocodile Dundee, where he starred alongside Paul Hogan and helped bring Australia’s rugged beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife to the world stage.
But Burt’s fame didn’t end with the movie. In 2008, he found a new home at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, where he spent the rest of his life as a living reminder of the power and majesty of Australia’s natural predators.
“Burt wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a force of nature,” the zoo said in a statement. “He showed visitors from around the globe what makes saltwater crocodiles so incredible.”
Burt wasn’t just famous—he was unforgettable. Over the years, visitors flocked to Crocosaurus Cove to catch a glimpse of this real-life movie star. Here’s what made him stand out:
Size and strength: Burt embodied the raw power of saltwater crocodiles, wowing audiences at feeding time.
Global recognition: His role in Crocodile Dundee made him an international ambassador for Australian wildlife.
Big personality: Known for his bold, sometimes challenging character, Burt was adored by staff and visitors alike.
“While he could be difficult at times,” the zoo said, “it was this personality that made him so loved and so memorable.”
Remembering Burt: A legendary saltwater crocodile’s legacy
Burt’s passing marks the end of an era, but his story lives on as a testament to Australia’s wild beauty and its unique connection to nature. He wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a piece of Australia’s cultural fabric, a reminder of the rugged Top End, and a star who will never be forgotten.
Crocosaurus Cove’s final tribute: “Burt will forever be remembered as a true Aussie icon—one of a kind.”
