An iconic star of the 1986 blockbuster Crocodile Dundee has died.
Burt, the 5.1 meter, 700kg monster crocodile from the comedy adventure film, which co-starred Paul Hogan, died in captivity in Darwin.
He was ‘estimated to be more than 90 years old’.
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium attraction that has held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday.
“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 wrote on their Facebook page.
“Burt passed away peacefully this weekend, believed to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”
Burt, the crocodile from the comedy adventure film that starred alongside Paul Hogan (right), died in captivity in Darwin and was ‘estimated to be over 90 years old’
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium attraction that has held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday
The attraction subsequently wrote a heartfelt tribute to the iconic reptile and was noted as ‘one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world’.
“Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience and a personality as bold as the Top End itself,” they continued.
‘Caught in the Reynolds River in the 1980s, Burt became one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world. He appeared in Crocodile Dundee and helped shape Australia’s image as a country of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife.
‘In 2008, Burt made his way to Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education. Burt was known for his independent nature and was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude made clear during his earlier years on a crocodile farm.
‘His fiery temperament earned him the respect of both his keepers and visitors, as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.’
They continued, “Burt was truly one of a kind. He wasn’t just any 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 all over the world marveled at its impressive size and commanding presence, especially during 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 crucial role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving them for future generations.”
Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile herpetarium and aquarium attraction that has held Burt in captivity since 2008, announced Burt’s death on Monday
Crocosaurus Cove plans to honor Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign at the attraction.
Parks and Wildlife Minister Marie-Clare Boothby expressed her sadness at the news of Burt’s death during a speech to the media on Monday.
‘[Burt was] a true icon of the territory, evident in Crocodile Dundee,” she said.
“It’s very sad to hear… I think Territorians across the area would be quite sad about this.”
In 2015, Burt made headlines after two drunk teenagers broke into his enclosure to taunt the beast.
The teenagers, described by police as ‘a bit intoxicated’, sneaked into ‘Crocosaurus Cove’ and teased the monstrous crocodile.
“Around 4am we got a call from the security guard… he, God bless his cotton socks, gave chase and the two suspects took off,” Detective Chief Inspector Del Jones said, according to Nine News.
Before being startled by the guard, the pair threw objects into the crocodile enclosure, including a ‘wet floor’ sign and a pink buoy, which the 700kg behemoth steadfastly chewed up in disgust.
“Burt didn’t like that, he destroyed it,” Chief Inspector Jones said.
Burt co-starred with Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the original Crocodile Dundee film, and was also the basis for the digital crocodile in the 2007 film Rogue.
Burt co-starred with Hogan and Linda Kozlowski (both pictured) in the original Crocodile Dundee film, and was also the basis for the digital crocodile in the 2007 film Rogue.