A hapless crocodile in the Northern Territory, Australia has trapped its head in a discarded tyre, making it impossible for the animal to hunt its prey. News sources report that Tom Nichols, NT Parks and Wildlife ranger, is attempting to harpoon the wretched reptile in order to remove the unwanted spare tyre: “I’ll try to harpoon it during the day. If that doesn’t work, I’ll go after it at night,” Nichols promised.

The star-crossed croc was spotted by houseboaters on the Mary River, 150 km east of Darwin. Businesswoman Linda Jolly and South Australian companions Graeme Wright – who photographed the blighted beast – and Larry Gilbert spotted the afflicted animal as it moved up-river. Wright commented that, “It didn’t seem to have any problem swimming.” It is thought that the sorrowful salty can still submerge – a fact that Nichols will have to contend with when he attempts to pick off his prey. The ranger promises to help the anguished animal after shooting it: “If the crocodile is in good condition, we'll let it go. Otherwise I'll bring it back to Darwin with me.”