Dog and chicken-eating Qld croc captured

A four-metre crocodile feasted on dogs and chickens and positioned itself outside people's homes before it was caught in north Queensland, wildlife officers say.

The 3.9-metre beast was trapped in the Herbert River at Halifax on Tuesday night after several sightings and complaints about animals being taken from backyards.

One resident told environment and heritage protection (EHP) officers the crocodile lay 20 metres from his back door for three days.

EHP Northern Operations Manager Dr Matt Brien said the animal's aggressive behaviour warranted removal.

"Interviews with residents confirmed that the crocodile had been displaying unusual behaviour, including approaching people and hissing," he said.

"The crocodile was in a residential area where a number of homes back on to the river, many of them without fences."

The croc was taken to a purpose-built Townsville holding facility.

Its capture comes weeks after a 4.7-metre crocodile was caught at The Strand near Townsville's CBD.