Burt the Saltwater Crocodile, Star of “Crocodile Dundee”, Dies at 90: 'End of an Incredible Era'

The reptile passed away over the weekend, according to his carers at Crocosaurus Cove Darwin where Burt had lived for 16 years

Moviestore/Shutterstock Burt, the reptile star of 'Crocodile Dundee' has died

Moviestore/Shutterstock

Burt, the reptile star of 'Crocodile Dundee' has died

Crocodile Dundee fans are mourning the loss of movie legend Burt the Saltwater crocodile.

On Sunday, Dec. 23., a representative for Crocosaurus Cove Darwin penned a sad Facebook post which revealed the over-five-meter-long reptile had “passed away peacefully” over the weekend. Burt had lived at the Australian attraction since 2008.

Burt was estimated to be over 90-years-old and weighed a staggering 700kg, per The Independent. Crocosaurus Cove Darwin said his death was, "the end of an incredible era."

“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,” the Facebook post read.

Alamy Burt, an Australian big salt water crocodile has died

Alamy

Burt, an Australian big salt water crocodile has died

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The movie, starring Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski, remains the top-earning Australian film ever as reported by the BBC.

A spokesperson for the Darwin attraction revealed that “fierce and fascinating” Burt spent his last years helping to educate visitors about crocodiles. They said he garnered respect with his “fiery temperament,” while maintaining “the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile."

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Alamy Burt lived out his final years in Darwin

Alamy

Burt lived out his final years in Darwin

“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 Facebook post continued. The statement also revealed that while his personality could be "challenging" it was what made him so "memorable and beloved."

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“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 vital role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations," the post concluded.

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Crocosaurus Cove Darwin will be placing a commemorative sign at the attraction to honor Burt’s legacy they shared.

Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby honored the crocodile as she addressed the media on Monday, per the U.S. Sun.

“[Burt was] a true icon of the Territory,” she said.

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