Chethma De Mel, Jadetimes Staff
C. J. De Mel is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Entertainment News
Cassius, the world's biggest saltwater crocodile held in captivity, has died on an island off Queensland, Australia, at a wildlife sanctuary. He was estimated to be over 110 years old, even though nobody knew what the exact age was. The giant reptile was measuring 5.5 meters, or 18 feet, in length and weighing close to one tonne. The huge saltwater crocodile had lived since the 1980s at the Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat.
In 2011, Cassius laid claim to the title of Guinness World Record holder for the largest crocodile in captivity. Marineland Melanesia announced his passing via social media. They also referred to Cassius as "our beloved mate" and "a cherished member of our family."
Before capture, Cassius was known to have attacked cattle and damaged propellers of boats in the wild. This only got him captured and finally transferred. George Craig, founder of the sanctuary, bought Cassius in 1987, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. For over 37 years, Cassius kept Craig companionable and happy; Craig had recently moved to Cairns, reports stated, about the time Cassius's health began to go downhill.
The sanctuary said in a statement filled with deep respect: "We are grateful to all those who, throughout the years, could come to visit Cassius and offer him acts of kind regard and admiration." Additionally, the sanctuary announced that in the days to come, it may operate at reduced capacity as staff mourn the loss of this remarkable crocodile.
