The iconic crocodile who starred in hit film Crocodile Dundee has died, his zoo has announced.
Crocosaurus Cove, where Burt had been kept since 2008, said he passed away “peacefully” over the weekend.
He was estimated to be over 90 years old, well over the usual life expectancy.
“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,” the zoo said.
“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.”
Burt was captured for the first time in the 1980s, the zoo said, and he appeared in Crocodile Dundee just before Christmas in 1986.
He starred alongside Paul Hogan in the film, helping to “shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife”.
Known for his “independent nature”, the zoo said Burt was a “confirmed bachelor” with a “fiery temperament”, which earned him the respect of caretakers and visitors.
“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,” the zoo added.
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The average saltwater crocodile usually lives up to 70 years.
Crocosaurs Cove said it plans to install a commemorative sign to celebrate his “extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park”.
