Director of Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Thomas Chan says the public are welcome to offer their suggestions for a name for the four-year-old female crocodile caught at Shan Pui River.

Activities to boost public awareness of protecting endangered species are also being considered, and details will be announced soon, he added.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Mr Chan said the reptile, now being kept at the New Territories North Animal Management Centre, is in good condition though it will take some time for the creature to get used to the new environment.

It will be sent to Kadoorie Farm later for temporary care, and kept permanently at the Wetland Park upon its completion in late 2005.

Croc's capture cost $300,000

The crocodile was seen at Nam Sang Wai near Yuen Long in November last year, and the department placed a total of 28 traps along the Shan Pui River to catch the reptile. It was found in one of the traps on Thursday morning.

The department said about $300,000 has been spent in netting the reptile.