Saltwater crocodiles are the largest living reptiles and the source of significant human-wildlife conflict across Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Managing this conflict ethically requires attention to crocodile welfare.
Human-wildlife conflict management for saltwater crocodiles raises genuine welfare dilemmas. Lethal removal prevents crocodile welfare harm but ends the individual life. Translocation is welfare-positive for the crocodile but logistically difficult and sometimes leads the animal to return. Captivity in inadequate facilities causes chronic stress. Research into non-lethal deterrents and improved early-warning systems for communities at risk represents the most welfare-positive long-term approach.