Brave Farmer Survives Crocodile Attack By Biting Back Crocodile’s Eyelid

Australian Farmer Survives Crocodile Attack Through Grit and Quick Thinking

An Australian cattle producer, Colin Deveraux, has emerged as a true survivor after a harrowing encounter with a 3.2-meter saltwater crocodile in the Northern Territory. Deveraux’s quick thinking and sheer determination saved him from what could have been a tragic outcome.

The incident occurred last month when Deveraux, on his way to construct fencing near the Finniss River, made a stop at a billabong. Intrigued by the sight of fish swimming in the dwindling waters, little did he know that this moment would soon turn into a life-or-death struggle.

As he stepped away from the water’s edge, the formidable reptile lunged, clamping its powerful jaws around his right foot. Deveraux, undeterred, fought back fiercely. Kicking at the crocodile’s ribs with his other foot, he seized a moment of opportunity, sinking his teeth into the crocodile’s eyelid.

Describing the gripping ordeal, Deveraux told ABC news, “I was in such an awkward position… but by accident my teeth caught his eyelid. It was pretty thick, like holding onto leather, but I jerked back on his eyelid and he let go.”

With adrenaline-fueled determination, he managed to break free and sprinted to safety. The crocodile, momentarily stunned, gave chase but eventually retreated.

Deveraux’s resourcefulness didn’t end there. Using a towel and some rope, he staunchly stemmed the bleeding from his leg before being rushed by his brother to the Royal Darwin Hospital, a grueling 130 kilometers away.

Reflecting on the incident, Deveraux acknowledges the gravity of his situation. “If he [the crocodile] had bitten me somewhere else it would have been different,” he stated. “It means I’ve got to change what I do. I’ve been walking around that swamp country too long fixing fences and living life, but it’s opened my eyes.”

In the Northern Territory, crocodiles play a crucial role in both industry and tourism. Protected by law, they are subjects of immense scientific and human interest, drawing tourists from around the world.

This heart-stopping encounter serves as a stark reminder of the wildlife challenges faced by those living and working in these regions. The last fatal crocodile attack in Australia occurred in April earlier this year on the Kennedy River in Cape York Peninsula, Queensland.