World's second-biggest crocodile Holey euthanased at Gold Coast's Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

QUEENSLAND has lost a second animal icon in a week, with the death of the world's second-biggest crocodile in captivity.

Holey, a 5.1m, 42-year-old saltwater crocodile, was euthanased at the Gold Coast's Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on Friday after vets discovered an aggressive cancer had spread through its body.

Its death followed that of Australia's oldest elephant, 58-year-old Siam, at Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast on Tuesday.

Holey was believed to be the world's second largest saltwater crocodile in captivity after 5.48m croc Cassius on Green Island.  A 6.17m crocodile, Lolong, was previously the biggest in captivity but died in the Philippines earlier this week.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary senior vet Dr Michael Pyne said losing Holey, who had been at the park for 10 years, was like losing a family member.

“It was a very heartbreaking decision to euthanize such a majestic animal however it was a unanimous decision by a panel of resident and independent consultant vets based on animal welfare and the intent to minimise his suffering,'' Dr Pyne said.

"Holey resided at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for 10 years and will be missed greatly.

"Today we mourn the passing of a member of our family.''

The crocodile's remains will be offered to the Queensland Museum and a memorial will be established at the Sanctuary.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/worlds-second-biggest-crocodile-holey-euthanased-at-gold-coasts-currumbin-wildlife-sanctuary/story-e6frg6n6-1226578888858