• Australian authorities investigate influencer Mike Holston for wrestling crocodiles.
• The videos are deemed "extremely dangerous and illegal" under local wildlife laws.
• Queensland Premier criticizes Holston, calling him a "goose."
• Wildlife expert Bob Irwin warns about respecting Australia's wildlife to avoid deportation.
• Maximum fines for interfering with crocodiles can reach AUD 24,800.

Australian authorities are currently investigating American influencer Mike Holston, known as “therealtarzann,” after he filmed himself wrestling with wild crocodiles in Queensland. These videos showcase risky encounters with both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, prompting officials to label the behavior as "extremely dangerous and illegal." The Queensland environment department is actively exploring compliance actions, including potential fines, to deter similar conduct in the future, emphasizing that only those trained and licensed should interact with crocodiles in the region, according to SCMP, CBS News, and India Times.

Holston recorded several videos, where he leaps from a boat into shallow waters and wrestles a crocodile on the riverbank. In one instance, he expressed, “He got a hold of me, but I got a hold of him,” after being bitten and bleeding during the encounter. Holston claims that the videos are intended for “educational purposes,” yet they have drawn considerable condemnation for their recklessness and disregard for wildlife safety, according to SCMP and CBS News.

Queensland’s Premier David Crisafulli criticized Holston’s actions, labeling him a “goose” and reinforcing the importance of respecting local wildlife. Prominent wildlife conservationist Bob Irwin, son of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, echoed this sentiment, stating, “People visiting our country need to respect our wildlife, or they need to be booted out the door.” He highlighted the potential disastrous consequences of such actions, underlining that attempts to interfere with wildlife can lead to severe penalties, including fines up to AUD 24,800, as stated by CBS News and India Times.

Government statistics estimate that there are between 20,000 to 30,000 saltwater crocodiles in Queensland, a vast area known as “Croc Country.” These reptiles can grow to over 13 feet long and weigh over 600 pounds. Both species are known for their territorial nature, with historical data revealing 14 fatal attacks on humans since 1985. With Holston's antics drawing attention, wildlife officials stress the necessity for strict adherence to wildlife laws to protect both humans and animals, according to SCMP, CBS News, and India Times.