A legend from the iconic film Crocodile Dundee has passed away. Burt, the massive 5.1-meter, 700kg crocodile who featured in the 1986 comedy-adventure flick, died while in captivity in Darwin, Australia.
The venerable reptile was “estimated to be over 90 years old” when it passed. Crocosaurus Cove, which had been home to Burt since 2008, shared the sad news on Monday via a social media post.
Crocosaurus Cove took to their Facebook page to express their sorrow: “‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic Saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee.”
They continued, “Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”
The wildlife park then shared a touching tribute to the late crocodile alongside the announcement of its death.
As reported by DailyMail.com, they highlighted Burt’s status as “one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world”.
Their tribute read: “‘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 recognized 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.”
In 2008, the formidable Burt arrived at Crocosaurus Cove, quickly becoming an iconic figure in crocodile conservation. His single status and distinct individuality were evident from his days at an earlier crocodile farm, captivating imaginations with his fierce independence.
Burt’s fiery disposition won him the admiration of those caring for him and throngs of visitors, representing the true essence of the saltwater crocodile’s wild spirit.
His caregivers 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.”
They added: “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 marveled at his impressive size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.”
The staff at Crocosaurus Cove express their heartfelt gratitude to all who came to see Burt and honoured his extraordinary existence. With Burt’s passing, there is renewed awareness of wildlife’s essential place in our collective heritage and the critical need for its conservation by future generations.
The film ‘Crocodile Dundee’ remains an Australian cinematic treasure, featuring and co-written by Paul Hogan, whose work earned him an Academy Award nomination.