Crocodile & Snakes by Amos Djandjomerr

Amos was raised by his mother’s cousin Jacqueline Cahill within Kakadu region. Amos was raised in Jabiru, attending Jabiru Area School and West Arnhem College. Later he was a resident and student with Djidjbidjidjbi College – a unique and tailored response to assist young people in the area. ‘Mossy’ is an alert and enthusiastic young man who has also engaged in ranger work at Kakadu National Parks HQ and enjoyed field work and project work in the high season. This is incredible work where he has enjoyed a range of ‘care for country’ and ‘work on country’ that keeps his rich culture and connection to family and place alive. 

The Ginga, a saltwater crocodile, is the totem animal to many indigenous people throughout western Arnhem Land and Kakadu. They are also a food source, though their hunting takes a lot of effort. Especially the old Gingas are highly respected by the locals, as they would rather try to move them instead of hunting them, in case they make their way into the locals territory. 

Nawarndak, the file snake, is an aquatic snake that can grow up to 2.5 metres in length and survives on a monthly snack of fish found in the Kakadu waterways. Considered a delicacy highly prized for its rich fat and eggs, Nawarndak is cooked over hot coals. Not an easy catch, they're generally collected when the water levels are low as they congregate around the banks and tree trunks along the water's edge to escape the heat of the day. However hunters need to be super cautious not to become someone else's dinner due to the high population of saltwater crocodiles cruising around the river systems in Kakadu.